Family and friends farewell victim of London Bridge terror attack Sara Zelenak
Sara Zelenak had so much to live for.
The former Brisbane school student had moved from the Sunshine State to London to work as an au pair and explore the world.
But her young life came to a tragic end earlier this month when she was one of eight people killed in the London Bridge terror attack.
The 21-year-old’s devastated family and friends gathered at Moreton Bay College on Friday to say their final goodbyes.
The private funeral lasted about an hour and included the release of white doves.
A statement by Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta was also read at the service.
“Sara was a bright and caring woman who was loved by everyone who knew her,” he said.
“In this difficult time, I encourage you all to come together in support of each other, and to show the world our strength in the face of unspeakable acts.
“This is the legacy Sara deserves.”
Following the service, a hearse carrying her coffin, draped in soft pink and white flowers, slowly made its way through the school grounds.
Police stopped the traffic outside the campus so it could make its way onto the road, closely followed by a convoy of cars carrying mourners.
Ms Zelenak was one of two Australians killed when three terrorists ploughed a van into pedestrians on London Bridge and stabbed people in nearby Borough Market.
Her aunt Tara described her as “the most beautiful, happy, positive young lady with so much to live for” in a post on Facebook.
“Her heart and spirit will live on in all of us.”
The Moreton Bay College community also paid tribute to their former student, describing her as someone who always had a smile on her face.
“She embodied the values of Moreton Bay College and was adored by her peers and staff,” it said in a statement.
The local gym where Ms Zelenak’s mother Julie Wallace worked will hold a Sweat for Sara fitness class on Friday night to raise money for the family.
The other Australian victim in the London attacks, 28-year-old nurse Kirsty Boden, will be farewelled in her South Australian hometown of Loxton on Monday.
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