Sisters Caitlin and Amy Rajwanta remember their mother, Unitha, on Amy's prom day.
Image: Supplied
For Glenashley's Rajwanta sisters, Caitlin, 20, and Amy, 16, Mother’s Day this year carries a weight of grief following the death of their mother, Unitha, in March.
Their father, Vikash, killed their mother before taking his own life amid divorce proceedings.
Caitlin said she felt "heartsore".
“It will be my first Mother’s Day without her. It is gut-wrenching to know that we will not celebrate Mother’s Day with her in person, but we know she is watching over us,” she said.
Caitlin and Amy Rajwanta with Unitha.
Image: Supplied
Despite the pain, Caitlin said she held on to cherished memories.
“My favourite memory of my mum was the first time I cooked her Mother's Day breakfast. I had just turned 13 and was learning to cook.
"She was so surprised that I had made her breakfast. She had the biggest smile and finished every bit. Afterwards she hugged me. I felt so proud of myself that I had finally done something for her."
Caitlin said that on Mother's Day, they usually went out to lunch after attending church service.
"We would spend the day together and have supper. My mother, sister and I would also visit my grandmother. My mother and my grandmother would talk for hours."
From left: Amy, Unitha and Caitlin Rajwanta.
Image: Supplied
Among the many memories, one trait stood out most vividly: her mother’s unmistakable joy.
“She was always laughing or smiling, not because the joke was funny but because she had the loudest and most joyful laugh; even if she was going through something. I cannot forget this."
This year, the sisters plan to honour their mother in a quieter, more reflective way.
“In the morning, we will light a candle. After church service, we will have lunch and supper at home. If we are ready, we will share our favourite memories of Mum. We will thank God for giving us such a wonderful woman as a mother, and keep her memory alive."