In 2023, Lilie James, a dedicated water polo coach at St. Andrew’s Cathedral School in Sydney, lost her life at the hands of her ex-boyfriend. Her tragic death has sparked important discussions about domestic violence.

During a recent court proceeding, New South Wales state coroner Teresa O’Sullivan highlighted the profound impact of Lilie’s family, particularly her mother, Peta, and a family member named Jamie. “Their love and grief are a powerful presence in this court,” she remarked, emphasizing the emotional weight carried by those left behind.

O’Sullivan expressed hope that Peta’s heartfelt message, combined with the lessons drawn from this tragedy, would resonate beyond the confines of the courtroom, aiming to instigate meaningful change in society.

The coroner also criticized the failure to recognize such homicides within the broader context of previous coercive control, underscoring the need for a deeper understanding of the dynamics that often precede domestic violence.

The coroner also recommended education and programs to raise community awareness, and advice services targeting young men to promote respectful and healthy relationship behaviour.

After killing James, Thijssen “jumped or intentionally [fell] from the cliff at Diamond Bay Reserve in Vaucluse with the intention of ending his life”.