Emotional memorial service for young bullying victim 'Dolly' Everett
Friends and family have farewelled the young Northern Territory girl who took her own life after being bullied online.
A public memorial service is being held for Amy Jayne Everett, affectionately known as "Dolly", at the Casuarina Street Public School in Katherine.
Her heartbroken father, Tick Everett, urged her online bullies to attend the 14-year-old's memorial so they can see first-hand the devastated they have caused.
"Please come to our service and witness the complete devastation you have created," Mr Everett wrote on Sunday.
Friends and family arrive at the memorial service for Dolly. Source: 7 News / Bianca Stone
Amy 'Dolly' Everett was the face of Akubra Hats as a child. Photo: Facebook/AkubraHats
Her family said she would be remembered as the "kindest, caring, beautiful soul".
The teenager's death has become a battle cry against the horrors of cyber-bullying and the effects it has on mental health, particularly on young people.
"Before Dolly died, she completed a drawing and wrote the words 'Stand up, speak even if your voice shakes'," the Everett family said.
Plenty of people in blue to honour Dolly Everett .. one woman even died her hair to pay tribute to the Territory teen. @sunriseon7 @7NewsBrisbane @7NewsSydney pic.twitter.com/U2reQI7lo1
— Bianca Stone (@Bianca_Stone) January 12, 2018
The family said they did not want another family to experience such "sadness and tragedy".
"This powerful message tells the dark, scary place our beautiful angel had travelled to."
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They have since established a trust in her name called "Dolly's Dream", dedicated to raising awareness around bullying, anxiety, depression and youth suicide.
Left: Dolly (far right) pictured with her family. Right: Dolly at her home in Katherine. Source: Facebook/Tick Everett
Dolly had been the young, angelic face of an Akubra hats Christmas campaign.
In a statement on social media on Thursday, the company said: "To think that anyone could feel so overwhelmed and that this was their only option is unfathomable."
Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
Mens Line Australia on 1300 78 99 78.
