Those closest to the 26-year-old planted a “butterfly tree” not far from where she was found dead under the bridge at Mogareeka a week prior.

Patrick Aberdeen said Ms Cave was more than a friend to he and his partner, “she was our little sister”. 

“Everyone knew her as ‘love’ or ‘darl’ and was always greeted with a big hug,”  he said.

“She was a lovely person with a beautiful personality.

“She didn’t have children of her own, but she was like a big aunty to ours and she gave lots of love to others.”

Another friend who spoke at the tree planting spoke of her smile and warm nature.

Another said it only took one hug from Marnie to have her go “straight to my heart – she was an extraordinary girl”.

Mr Aberdeen encouraged friends to continue to share photos and messages of love and support to a Facebook tribute page set up in her name.

He also said Lifeline and other similar services operating around the Bega Valley were available if anyone needed their assistance.

The police are treating Ms Cave’s death as murder and again encouraged members of the community to come forward with any information that may help with their investgation.

Ms Cave was last seen around lunchtime in the Bega shopping district and anyone who may know of her movements throughout Tuesday should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Her funeral is to be held at 2pm on Wednesday, October 28, at Clavering Park, Wolumla.

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