The Sunshine Coast community is united in grief following the devastating death of 21-year-old footballer Finley Bone, who was tragically struck by lightning during a freak weather event at the Cooroy Sporting Complex on Thursday afternoon.
Finley had been practicing goal-kicking with her partner when the lightning strike occurred — a sudden and shocking incident that happened despite no rain at the time. Emergency responders and critical care paramedics rushed her to Nambour Hospital in critical condition, but despite their tireless efforts, Finley could not be saved.
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Her mother, Donna Markert, described her daughter as “a beautiful, kind, and caring young woman” whose life was cut short in an instant. “No one can believe this happened,” she said tearfully. “Finley was 21 and had her life taken away in a minute.”
A talented athlete with an infectious love for the game, Finley played for the Noosa Lions FQPL3 Women’s team and coached the club’s Under-12/13 girls. Her dedication to football and her positive influence on young players left a lasting mark on everyone she worked with.
In an emotional tribute, the Noosa Lions Football Club expressed their deep sorrow, writing:
“Noosa Lions Football Club is devastated by the tragic loss of Finley Bone. Finley was a much-loved member of our FQPL3 Women’s team and a coach of our U12/13 girls. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Paul and Donna and all of Finley’s family and friends 💙.”
Finley’s former school, Noosa Christian College, also shared a heartfelt statement mourning her loss:
“Noosa Christian College is devastated by the tragic loss of Finley Bone. Finley was a much-loved past student of the school. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Paul, Donna, and all of Finley’s family and friends.”
Finley’s mother shared that her daughter “lived and breathed football,” and found peace and happiness in every game she played. “Fin was a sports tragic,” she said. “We are taking solace knowing she was doing something she loved. It’s just tragic.”
Tributes have since flooded social media, with teammates, coaches, and community members remembering Finley as a shining light — a young woman whose kindness, warmth, and enthusiasm for life inspired everyone around her.
Football Queensland also extended condolences to her family and confirmed that all football activities at the club have been suspended while the community mourns.
As the Sunshine Coast grieves this unimaginable loss, Finley’s name will be remembered not just for her achievements on the field, but for the joy, generosity, and love she brought into the lives of so many.