Isla Marschke, a 14-year-old from Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, tragically ended her own life after years of battling mental health issues and enduring bullying. Diagnosed with anxiety, OCD, and autism, Isla had recently transitioned to distance learning due to bullying at her previous school, Shalom College. Although she seemed more content in her new learning environment, she still faced significant challenges.
Ava, Isla’s older sister, spoke about the distress Isla suffered, stating, “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 further shared that the bullies were “just awful to her” and even though Isla had left the traditional school setting, the impact of the bullying had been severe.
Daniel McMahon, the Principal of Shalom College, confirmed that Isla had been a victim of bullying during her tenure at the school. Noting that the school, a Catholic institution, did make attempts to address such incidents, he observed that some bullying was clandestine, making it difficult to control. McMahon also pointed out that not all of the bullies were enrolled at the school. He stressed that Isla’s case underscores broader issues beyond bullying, such as mental health and a lack of adequate support services in rural areas. He further noted that Isla was dealing with multiple and complex issues, cautioning against attributing blame to specific individuals, as it would not be entirely accurate or helpful.
On the evening of Tuesday, October 8, 2024, her mother, Christie Jacobson, found Isla in an unresponsive state in their backyard. Despite her attempts at CPR, it was too late. A brief note was found in Isla’s room which read, “I’m sorry, I love you mum.”
Jacobson disclosed that she had spent several months attempting to find a therapist for her daughter, only to face rejections from child psychologists who either deemed her daughter too young or were fully booked. Obtaining follow-up care proved to be equally challenging, as she was repeatedly turned down when seeking help.
The dance academies where Isla was a student paid tribute to her by remembering her vibrant and joyful demeanor in classes. TNT Dance Academy stated that Isla brought a positive and spirited energy, while LA Dance Academy expressed that her absence had made the world less bright.
Andy McLucas, Isla’s stepfather, recalled her as an exceptional and spirited individual with a distinctive sense of humor. He also highlighted her singing talent, revealing that she had recently been invited to record the national anthem for her school.
Just hours before her untimely passing, Isla had been discussing upcoming birthday plans with her sister, Ava, making her sudden death even more shocking. Ava remembered Isla as appearing perfectly fine during their conversation.
A GoFundMe page, set up to assist with Isla’s funeral expenses, has collected nearly $60,000 Australian dollars, demonstrating the community’s support for the bereaved family. Isla’s tragic story underscores the critical need for enhanced mental health resources in rural areas, as her family and friends grieve the loss of a bright, gifted young girl who left an indelible mark in her brief life.
