Sarah Halpenny, ‘sorely missed’ teacher from Ireland, dies in Melbourne

Heartbreaking tributes have poured in for a young Irish teacher who died suddenly in Melbourne.

Sarah Halpenny’s loved ones are in mourning after the 29-year-old teacher unexpectedly died on December 14.

The “amazing teacher” was “equally loved and adored by her pupils” her previous school in Ireland, St Joseph’s National School Kingscourt said.

Ms Halpenny leaves behind her partner Ciaran, her parents Yvonne and David and sister Grace.

She had been working at Sacred Heart Primary School in northwest Melbourne when she passed.

St Kevin’s GAA, Sarah’s football team in Melbourne, shared a heartwarming tribute to the young woman.

“Beautiful inside and out, Sarah was kind, caring, a straight shooter, there was no sugar-coating with her, you knew where you stood, but it always came with a witty sense of humour and a great heart,” the post read.

“She was a great listener, very organised, a brilliant planner and someone who never wasted a moment, especially during the school holidays, always making the most of the time off booking trips, chasing the sun travelling with Ciaran.

“Sarah’s calm presence had a way of rubbing off on those around her, steadying and grounding people in moments big and small.”

“The love they shared was evident to all,” a tribute said.

A GoFundMe that aims to raise money to return her body to Ireland for burial has raised over €171,000 or $300,000 in four days.

The remainder of the money will go toward charitable causes that were “close to Sarah’s heart”.

Loved ones have been quick to share their favourite memories with the young teacher.

“You were the most amazing teacher. Walking down the hall and seeing you amongst your little group in your corner office. The staff and students will miss you so much,” one mourner wrote on social media.