A FRIENDLY face in the school yard, a cheeky smile at the local supermarket and a person always willing to help others - Terri Windridge touched the lives of many in Rochester.
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The 19-year-old was killed on Sunday when her car collided with a tree at Koyuga, west of Tongala.
She was remembered fondly at Rochester Secondary College, Major's Supa IGA and among all family and friends.
College principal Bernie Altmann said Terri had a "bubbly, friendly personality" and had a great circle of friends at the school.
"When you speak to her teachers, they all commented on the beautiful smile she had and how she was always a happy face around the school," he said.
Terri took part in a combined trip to Cambodia last year, helping disadvantaged children in the impoverished country.
She also had plans to join Victoria Police, something Mr Altmann said was a reflection on her strong character and willingness to serve her community.
"She was a young lady who wanted to make a difference in the world," he said.
"Our hearts go out to her family."
While attending Rochester Secondary College, Terri also worked at Major's Supa IGA in Rochester from when she was 15 until earlier this year.
Store owner Brad Major said Terri's friendly and positive attitude made her a genuine asset to the supermarket.
"Terri always had a big smile on her face," he said.
"She was a dedicated worker, always asking for more hours. She had responsibilities from a young age as well and worked as much as she possibly could.
"She did most of the tasks in the store during her time here."
She was a young lady who wanted to make a difference in the world.
- Bernie Altmann
Mr Major said staff would always remember Terri as a "cheeky girl". "She will be sadly missed by everyone here at IGA," he said.
Those close to the family described the loss as an "enormous tragedy" as one of Rochester's most prominent families lost one of its own.
Rochester Police Senior Sergeant John Atley said the whole town was in mourning as it came to terms with the accident.
Terri's auntie Maria Whitehead said the family was devastated.
"Our beautiful girl has been taken too soon," she said.
"The memories are ours to cherish."
Cheryl Hicks also paid tribute to her niece, saying Terri was "the light of our big family".
"We were blessed to have someone as beautiful as Terri in our family," she said.
"Our hearts are broken, our lives are shattered. You were the most amazing, gorgeous girl.
"Fly free, beautiful spirit."
A date for the funeral of Terri Windridge had yet to be determined.
- with the Campaspe News
