Toyah Cordingley's dad opens up on moment he found murdered daughter's body
Toyah Cordingley’s heartbroken father has opened up on the moment he found his daughter’s body in the sand dunes at a Queensland beach.
Troy Cordingley described it as something a father should never have to live through.
He made the tragic discovery at Wangetti Beach on October 22, a day after the 24-year-old was reported missing while walking her dog.
As the search for her killer continues, Mr Cordingley revealed details of that fateful day.
“On Sunday, the 21st of October, Toyah was reported missing. After 4-5 hrs of searching with others, I found her body on the beach,” he wrote in an emotional Facebook post.
“Toyah is my only child. Finding her body has burnt an indelible image in my mind.”
Mr Cordingley said he had images of her birthday parties and Christmas lunches permanently etched into his mind.
“It is something a father should never have to suffer.”
“Toyah grew into a beautiful, caring young woman. We are all so proud of that,” he added.
“Toyah and I shared a love that only a father and daughter can understand.
“I feel lost and empty inside but will always have the wonderful memories of those 24 years… 24 years, she should have had so many more.
Mr Cordingley thanked the police, SES and the tight-knit Wangetti community for working hard to try and find “who committed this horrific act against an innocent young woman”.
Toyah’s mother, Vanessa Gardiner, vowed she would never stop fighting for justice.
“Eight weeks (on Sunday) the time has gone so fast but I will never give up for our precious daughter Toyah,” she said.
“Justice will be done… My heart aches every single minute of every single day.”
