Mum remembers lost son two years after murder
IT has been a sombre couple of years for Paula Matthews, who remembers the passing of her son Brandon two years ago today.
Affectionately referred to as "Bear" for his generous cuddles, the legacy Brandon leaves behind will not be forgotten.
The former West Gladstone State and Tannum High student left school at 15 to pursue an apprenticeship as a chef.
Mother Paula Matthews said Brandon had been the perfect son.
"He was such a bubbly, outgoing and handsome young man," she reflected. "The girls just loved him; he was very popular and he just loved his family too."
The last time Ms Matthews saw her son was Christmas 2011, when he had travelled from Ipswich to spend time with the family he adored.
In August a jury found Zachary Michael Moloney guilty of murdering Brandon, 18, in a street fight in North Ipswich in January, 2012.
Ms Matthews is only beginning to come to terms with life without Brandon.
"His death was so unexpected. He had been planning to move back home just two weeks after he died."
Brandon's life centred around fishing and the outdoors. At his memorial service, a fishing rod and tackle box were placed with him.
