Alice Springs community to mourn Kumanjayi Little Baby at funeral service

The Alice Springs community is gathering today for the funeral of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby, who was found deceased south of the town on April 30. Hundreds of volunteers had spent days searching for her before her body was discovered.

Jefferson Lewis, 47, has been charged with her murder. The family has been observing cultural grieving practices, known as sorry business, since her death.

Kumanjayi Little Baby's grandfather, Robin Japanangka Granites, has invited the entire Alice Springs community to join the funeral service, which begins at 10 a.m. ACST at the Alice Springs Garden Cemetery. He encouraged attendees to wear pink, her favorite color, and thanked the community for their support during the search and grieving process.

Alice Springs Mayor Asta Hill anticipates the funeral will serve as a healing experience for the community. "It's going to be a really difficult day, of course, but there is also a lot of beauty and generosity in our community spirit, which I think is really highlighted in the way that day's been planned," she said.

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It's going to be a really difficult day, of course, but there is also a lot of beauty and generosity in our community spirit, which I think is really highlighted in the way that day's been planned.