A GoFundMe established last week to raise funds for a Campbell River family is nearing its goal.

Family, friends and community members are raising money to bring 19-year-old Piper James’ body back from Australia.

Piper had been backpacking with a close friend since October.

She went out by herself for a swim, and her body was found on January 19th on a beach, surrounded by dingoes.

A preliminary autopsy showed Piper most likely drowned.

As of this writing, the GoFundMe campaign has raised $28,155 towards a $30 thousand goal, to bring Piper’s body to Canada and help cover funeral and service costs.

Piper’s family remembers her as an adventurous spirit who loved life and the outdoors. Before her trip, she worked with BC Wildfire Service and had plans to return home ready to continue training.