Ipswich Girls' Grammar weeps for student lost in crash
IPSWICH Girls' Grammar School student Samantha Neilsen was yesterday remembered by her school as a cheerful girl whose beautiful smile made everyone feel welcome.
Samantha and her friend Zara Simon died when the car they were in slammed into a power pole in the western Brisbane suburb of Anstead in early on Sunday.
IGGS principal Dr Peter Britton said the school community was saddened by the loss of Samantha.
"Samantha came to Ipswich Girls' Grammar School in Year 8 and was to commence Year 12 this year," Dr Britton said.
"We extend sincere condolences to Samantha's family at this very sad time and have offered to assist in any way we can.
"Samantha's teachers described her as a cheerful student with many friends. She enjoyed playing hockey and recently joined the IGGS Dance Troupe. Samantha's beautiful smile made all feel welcome when they came into her presence."
He said the school was offering counselling to students and their families.
Samantha and Zara's friend left tributes where they died and posted tributes on social media sites.
"Rest in paradise Samantha Neilsen; you will be greatly missed. My condolences go out to your family," one wrote.
Another wrote: "Samantha Neilsen and Zara Simon, I actually can't believe you guys are gone; it's just not right."
Police said Zara and Samantha were driving home from a party and ran off Hawkesbury Rd into a power pole. Speed was thought to have been a factor in the crash. The impact tore the car in half.
Metro north's Inspector Mark Laing described the crash scene as "horrific".
"It's just a tragic loss of two lives; even after 30 years you see something like this, it still affects us," he said.
"Samantha's teachers described her as a cheerful student with many friends. She enjoyed playing hockey and recently joined the IGGS Dance Troupe. Samantha's beautiful smile made all feel welcome when they came into her presence."
