Woman found dead on beach identified as 27-year-old doctor
A woman found washed up on a Sunshine Coast beach has been identified as a doctor at a local hospital.
Gemma Diessel was found by an off-duty lifeguard on Dicky Beach just after sunrise on Thursday after it is believed she went for a late night swim.
She was found with no belongings and wearing a black bikini. Police have appealed to anybody who may have found her mobile phone in the Kawana or Caloundra areas.
They believe the Samsung S9 will help them piece together her final movements. Her death is not being treated as suspicious and it is understood she was swimming alone when she got into trouble.
Ms Diessel, 27, worked as a doctor at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital after graduating from Griffith University last year.
Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service chief executive Naomi Dwyer said support was being offered to Ms Diessel’s co-workers.
“Our sincere condolences go out to this young woman’s family at this very sad time,” she said in a statement.
“We also want to support our staff who may be impacted by this very sad and unexpected news.
“We are providing counselling and support for her peers and colleagues via our confidential Employee Assistance Program.”
Tribute to Gemma Diessel
Fairfax Media reports friend Sarah Evans posted a tribute on Facebook following the tragic news.
“So, so sad. She was part of our family for more than five years, and I have nothing but good memories of those days,” she wrote.
“My heart breaks for her mum, dad & sister, and all who’s [sic] lives she touched. Including ours.”
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
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