Touching gesture for slain teen

Shyanne-Lee Tatnell was found dead near a walking track in the state’s northeast last month after she disappeared from Launceston in April.

Tasmania police have since arrested Scottsdale man Christopher Mark Jordan, 36, who was charged with the 14-year-old’s murder.

A GoFundMe account set up by people close to the teen’s family said mother Bobbi-lee Ketchell didn’t want flowers or gifts.

“(This is) a chance for members of the public to show their support,” organiser Joanne Nicholls said.

“Instead of flowers or gifts, please donate here. All donations go directly to the family’s needs.

Ms Nicholls said Ms Tatnell’s family did not want to receive anything but “expressions of condolence”.

“It is important to them for members of the public who have been involved in showing their compassion have an opportunity to show their gratitude to services who have also gifted compassion,” Ms Nicholls wrote.

The campaign has so far received almost $2300 in donations, well over the stated goal of just $1000.

Supports described Ms Tatnell as a “beautiful girl taken far too soon”, with some donating as much as $300.

Parkside Funerals, which is organising Ms Tatnell’s farewell, told the Daily Mail any funds they received would go to the family.

‘The fundraiser had been put up without the family consulting us and it sounded like the funds were coming directly to us,’ they said.

“It was nice of them to thank us but we don‘t have anything to do with it other than assisting the family.”

Mother Bobbi-Lee Ketchell broke her silence last week in a touching tribute posted to social media.

“Heaven has now gained two of my beautiful children. Their wings were ready but my heart was not,” Ms Ketchell said.

“My baby girl, I will stay strong and continue to be your voice – protecting you was something I couldn’t do or save you.

“I am blessed I was your mum and you are coming home to me, just not the way I hoped.”

More than 180 emergency service personnel including Tasmanian police were involved in the desperate search.

Police on Monday formally identified Ms Tatnell’s remains through DNA testing.

The teenager’s disappearance, and subsequent death, sent shockwaves through the tight-knit communities in rural Tasmania.

The Mercury reported seeing flowers, teddy bears, and heartfelt messages placed on Henry St bridge in Launceston.

Mr Jordan has been remanded into custody where he will remain ahead of his next court appearance on August 16.

No pleas have been entered.

Originally published as Loved ones in heartwarming gesture for slain teen Shyanne-Lee Tatnell