The family of six-year-old Airlie Montgomery, who tragically died after falling from a lookout, is working to create sensory-safe playgrounds in her memory.
The tragic death of six-year-old Airlie Montgomery, who fell from The Grotto lookout near her home in North Nowra, Australia, has prompted her family to initiate a mission to establish sensory-safe playgrounds. Airlie, who was non-verbal and had autism spectrum disorder, went missing for four hours on March 16, 2025, before her body was discovered at the base of the 800-meter-high lookout. Her parents, Corey and Katie Montgomery, have since been grieving the loss of their daughter while also aiming to make public spaces safer for children like her.
In response to this heartbreaking event, her family is establishing the Airlie Fairy Foundation, which will focus on fundraising efforts to upgrade playground equipment at the site that Airlie used to frequent. Their vision is to create sensory-safe environments that cater to children with autism and other sensory sensitivities, allowing them to play safely and comfortably. This initiative reflects a commitment not only to honor Airlie’s memory but also to advocate for the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in the community.
The Montgomery family's endeavor is gaining local support as they aim to build a legacy for Airlie that promotes inclusivity and awareness regarding the needs of children with autism. Through the foundation, they hope to engage the community in discussions about sensory-friendly designs in playgrounds and other public spaces, ultimately striving to prevent similar tragedies in the future and to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy their playground safely.
