A kindergarten student who died after twice being discharged from a Sydney hospital has been remembered as a “gorgeous” girl who was “full of life and energy”.
The six-year-old girl was taken to the emergency department of Sydney Children’s Hospital at Randwick, in the city’s east, on Monday.
She was discharged twice, the second time with a diagnosis of influenza, before her death at Northern Beaches Hospital the following day.
The student from St Luke’s Dee Why has been remembered in a statement from the school, which said the community has been deeply impacted by her loss.
“She was kind, had many friends and loved her family, friends and school,” the statement reads.
“She began her journey at St Luke’s Cottage last year and quickly captured the hearts of those around her with her warmth, vivacity and eagerness to learn.”
Her kindergarten teacher described her as a “thoughtful, caring student”.
The school said that “no words” could “express the heartbreak her parents are experiencing”.
The NSW coroner will investigate how the young girl died.
A spokesperson for Sydney Children’s Hospital said an initial review had been launched.
“On August 4, 2025, a patient presented to the emergency department at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick. Following clinical assessment, the child was discharged,” the spokesperson said.
“The patient re-presented shortly after, and following a diagnosis of influenza, was discharged with at-home guidance.
“Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network (SCHN) has learnt the patient later tragically died. SCHN expresses our deepest condolences to the family for the loss of their child.
“SCHN is progressing an initial review into the patient’s care while at the hospital.
“Based on this initial review, SCHN will work with Northern Sydney Local Health District as part of the joint independent clinical governance process.”
They said due to patient privacy, no further information can currently be provided.
A spokesperson for the Northern Beaches Hospital also confirmed a coronial inquest will be held into the girl’s death.
“We at Northern Beaches Hospital are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a young child. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the child’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the spokesperson said.
“Alongside Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, where the child received care earlier in the day, we will undertake the appropriate investigations in line with NSW Health policy, including a joint independent review. A coronial inquest has also been called into the child’s passing.”
“While we cannot comment on the specifics of the case during the review period, our thoughts are with the family, and we will continue to offer them our full support.”
The girl’s death comes amid the release of an investigation into the death of two-year-old Joe Massa at the privately operated Northern Beaches Hospital.
The tragedy and subsequent inquiries revealed multiple failures at the facility.
A report by the Clinical Excellence Commission this week found hospital chiefs never installed critical care cameras over the beds of extremely ill newborns and children, which is standard practice hospitals in NSW.
These cameras allow staff to see if a patient is deteriorating and needs urgent care.
The report also highlighted how junior staff were too afraid to speak up when a patient’s condition is worsening.
Healthscope, which operates the hospital, says three cameras will now be installed.
The company says its staff are committed to a workforce delivering safe, high-quality care and that it will act on the 13 recommendations put forward.
