Defined by an exuberance for life and a mischievous streak, hundreds of Coasters came out to show their respect for Caitlyn Loane and her family on Wednesday afternoon.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A rising star in agriculture and sport, the loss of the 19-year-old Latrobe dairy farmer was felt deeply throughout the community, with more than 600 guests attending a funeral service in Devonport.
The ceremony was officiated by Delma Carpenter, who said it was her infectious grin and the passion with which she approached every new task that set Ms Loane apart.
"Caitie will be remembered as a passionate person who followed her loves," Ms Carpenter said.
"(She had) a big smile, and an even bigger heart. She was a great mentor, and had time for everyone and everything," she said.
"While we cannot take away the sadness of this occasion, it is also a time that we can celebrate Caitie's life and achievements."
Caitie had a big smile and an even bigger heart.
- Delma Carpenter
Ms Loane was a passionate fifth-generation cattle breeder, and was living her dream of working alongside her parents on the family farm, while making a name for herself on the agricultural circuit and following in her grandfather's footsteps - a man she loving called "dicky bird".
This love of working on the land was captured online through her TikTok account, where Ms Loane shared snippets of her life to more than 50,000 followers.
Throughout the service, compilations of these videos were shown, with Ms Loane riding carefree on a tractor, hanging out with her beloved bulls, and finding the funny side to the gigantic produce grown on the property.
She had joked that one day she was going to be rich and famous for her videos - but just making them was enough.
The young farmer was also a keen footy player, with the Devonport Magpies women's side paying tribute and commending her all-or-nothing attitude on and off the field.
"For Caitie, life was for living - and she certainly she did," Ms Carpenter said.
"She was an exuberant, beautiful, amazing young woman who was dearly loved by her family and so many others.
"She will live on in our hearts forever.
"There is one thing that is for sure - Caitie will be sadly missed, and never forgotten."
Ms Loane's family expressed their thanks to the countless friends and relatives who have offered their support, and said they would reach out when they felt able to do so.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this story, please call:
- Lifeline 13 11 14 also lifeline.org.au
- Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
- Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 also beyondblue.org.au
- MensLine 1300 789 978 also mensline.org.au