Forever missing mum

Amanda Elliott, 30, died after her car spun off Pleasant Street South and smashed into a pole on May 1, sending shock waves through Ballarat and leaving many at a loss to explain how the accident occurred.

Sadly, Ms Elliott left behind her childhood sweetheart Blue and their daughters Lila, 12, and Tori Morley, 7.

But many friends and family members have rallied to their support, including Ms Elliott’s close mate Emily Vincent. 

Ms Vincent started a GoFundMe page to help Blue and his children in the lead-up to Mother’s Day, which will be a difficult day for the trio, who are still reeling from Ms Elliott’s death.

“The girls have to face the one day that means so much to everyone – Mother’s Day,” Ms Vincent said.

“But they no longer get to do what we do, waking up that morning running into the room to wish our mum a happy Mother’s Day, sharing gifts, cuddles and kisses.

“Not only have they lost this day, it’s every day they have lost.”

Lila and Tori have taken time off from Phoenix P-12 Community College as they struggle to get to grips with losing their mum.

The school’s principal, Karen Snibson, said teaching staff have been in close contact with the family, offering any support they could.

“We will do everything we can to get behind these two girls,” she said.

“Our job is to work with the family in support of them and to ensure their needs are met.

“We know this is an incredibly sad time for them.”

Blue’s mother, Maria Hughes, said Ms Elliott had shared a special bond with her two daughters.

“They were really close … extremely close,” Ms Hughes said.

“All three of them did everything together.

“I miss everything about Amanda. She was kind-hearted and always ready to lend an ear.”

Tributes flowed in for Ms Elliott over Facebook, with many remembering her love for hairdressing and quirky sense of humour.

Ninety-two people have died on Victoria’s roads this year.

To donate money for Ms Elliott’s two children, head to gofundme.com/dangerous-dreads-amanda-elliott.