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MELBOURNE - The devastated family of a little girl allegedly thrown from Melbourne's West Gate Bridge has described her as a beautiful, precious child with a determined nature.
Darcey Freeman survived the plunge into the Yarra river last Thursday, but died from terrible injuries in the Royal Children's Hospital several hours later.
The family of the four-year-old said in a statement released to the media today that it would never understand the reasons behind her death.
They also released a photo of the adorable blonde-haired girl, her head resting on a chair and smiling into the camera.
"Sometimes things in life are just not fair," her uncle Tim Barnes said in the statement.
"Darcey had a very determined nature. She displayed a very strong will and stood up for everything she believed in."
Darcey's father Arthur Phillip Freeman has been charged with her murder.
Mr Barnes said Darcey had a passion for music and Tie Me Kangaroo Down was one of her favourite songs.
She loved playing on the trampoline and adored both her brothers, Ben and Jack.
Her uncle said the family felt an extreme sense of loss and emptiness.
"We are in deep mourning over this tragic event," Mr Barnes said.
But he expressed the family's profound gratitude for the widespread public support.
"Our family have been overwhelmed by the public support shown to us from all around the world," he said.
"We wish to thank the public for their heartfelt sympathy and well wishes."
He also paid tribute to the Victoria Police and staff at the Royal Children's Hospital.
"Every single person involved had been simply wonderful," he said.
"Words cannot express our appreciation for the wonderful care given to Darcey during her final hours."
The family also gave its approval for a public memorial service in memory of the little girl who has touched so many people's hearts.
However, he also asked for the public to respect the family's need to mourn in private and to hold a private memorial for Darcey.
"The ongoing care and development of Ben and Jack is paramount to us and privacy will assist us greatly with this."
Meanwhile, Darcey's heartbroken mother Peta Freeman also paid tribute to her daughter in a notice in Melbourne's Herald Sun newspaper.
"My darling daughter. My heart will always be with you, as you will be with me," she said.
"We will miss you every day and remember you with love and laughter."
Her grandparents also added a touching tribute.
"Taken so tragically at such a tender age. You will never be forgotten Darce and we will love you forever."
- AAP
