A 14-year-old girl, Isla Marschke, from Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, ended her life after enduring years of mental health difficulties and bullying. Isla had been diagnosed with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and autism. Recently, she had started distance learning as an alternative to her previous school, Shalom College, where she experienced bullying.
Isla’s older sister, Ava, spoke about the bullying Isla had to endure, saying, “I’ve had to message them before to leave Isla alone, and I’ve had to speak to them at school… because it just gets so out of hand.” Ava noted that despite transitioning away from traditional school, the bullying had deeply impacted Isla.
Daniel McMahon, Principal of Shalom College, confirmed that Isla faced bullying while she was enrolled at the Catholic school. McMahon noted that despite the school’s efforts to curb bullying, some incidents happened covertly, making them difficult to address. He also pointed out that some bullies weren’t even students at the school. McMahon emphasized that Isla’s case underscores broader issues such as mental health and the lack of support services in rural areas. He suggested that while blaming specific individuals may provide temporary relief, it wouldn’t be an accurate or constructive approach.
On the evening of Tuesday, October 8, 2024, Isla’s mother, Christie Jacobson, discovered her lifeless body in their backyard. Despite Jacobson’s attempts at resuscitation, it was too late. In Isla’s room, a brief note was found, reading, “I’m sorry, I love you mum.”
Jacobson reported that finding a therapist for her daughter was an uphill battle. Child psychologists repeatedly turned them away, either because Isla was deemed too young or their schedules were at full capacity. As a result, securing follow-up care became increasingly difficult.
Both dance academies where Isla was a student paid tribute to her vibrant and joyful demeanor in class. TNT Dance Academy described Isla as a positively engaging student, while LA Dance Academy stated that her absence has left a noticeable void.
Andy McLucas, Isla’s stepfather, remembered the teenager as an exceptional individual with a unique sense of humor. He also highlighted her singing prowess, revealing that she had recently been asked to record the national anthem for her school.
Just hours before her death, Isla had been discussing upcoming birthday plans with her sister, Ava, making her passing even more shocking. Ava recalled that Isla seemed completely normal during their conversation.
A GoFundMe page set up to cover Isla’s funeral expenses has raised close to $60,000, demonstrating the community’s support for the bereaved family. Isla’s tragic end underscores the urgent need for more mental health resources in rural areas. Her loved ones continue to mourn the loss of a young girl whose short life left a lasting impact on many.
