Dozens of purple balloons floated into the evening skies over Lithgow on Thursday night as friends and family of Alison Lewis marked the 20th anniversary of her death.
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Approximately 100 people gathered at Queen Elizabeth Park for the memorial, which was organised by Alison’s friends Sally Shoard and Tanya Merrick.
The women said they didn’t want sadness but a happy occasion to celebrate Alison’s life, rather than remember her death.
“It was always going to be emotional but not sad,” Ms Shoard said.
“Alison’s mum and dad and one of her brothers came back and her aunty and uncle that still live in Lithgow were there. It’s been a long time since we’d seen them so it was wonderful to catch up.”
As well as a message from Ms Shoard and Ms Merrick, there were readings and prayers from Parish Priest Father Garry McKeown and Sisters Anne and Christine.
They also played Amazing Grace and Pink’s Beam Me Up.
Ms Shoard and Ms Merrick are also hoping that more good can come from the event. Representatives from both Lithgow Police and Lithgow Fire and Rescue attended the service.
It is hoped that a shuttle service can be established in the town so that noone has to walk alone at night and be placed at risk.
“There are a few things to come out of it. We are talking to police and they have been so helpful. We really want to see a shuttle bus in town,” Ms Shoard said.
“With help from local pubs and clubs and other businesses, we will keep pushing for alternative transport at night so this doesn’t happen again.
“We want to raise awareness and maybe even solve the problem. That would be a nice legacy for Alison.”
Ms Shoard and Ms Merrick wanted to thank the community for their assistance in putting the service together including Father Garry, Sister Anne and Sister Christine from St Patrick’s Church, R and K Gas, Bouquets By Design, Lithgow Council, Lithgow Mercury, 2LT, Lithgow Police, Lithgow Fire and Rescue and St Patrick’s School.
