The identities of the two teenage girls killed in a horror boating accident have been revealed as heartbroken family and friends farewell the teenagers.
Hannah Seymour, 14, and Rebecca Teuma, 13, died after the speedboat they were being towed behind hit a submerged tree on Lake Keepit in NSW's north.
The girls had been lying on an inflatable raft behind the speedboat when it crashed just two days after Christmas on December 27.
The tight-knit community of Quirindi, near Tamworth, farewelled the pair on Wednesday as the major reveals the town has been 'shattered' by their deaths.
The girls had not only been cousins, but also best friends.
Hannah Seymour, 14, (right) and Rebecca Teuma, 13, (left) died when the speedboat they were being towed behind hit a submerged tree on Lake Keepit in NSW's north
Doug Hawkins said the small agricultural town with a population of 3,500 had been greatly affected by the tragic boating accident.
'We as a shire are supporting the family in whatever way we can,' the mayor told the Daily Telegraph.
Jason Teuma said his happy-go-lucky daughter was incredibly talented as dozens of people paid tribute to the cousins on social media.
'Wonderful, happy, loving Bec! We miss your smiley face, your riddles and jokes, you riding your horse, dirt-bike and swimming at the creek. Rest beautiful soul,' one said.
'Two beautiful girls loved by four amazing devoted caring parents I just don't understand god's plans sometimes,' another wrote.
The Quirindi Junior Rugby Union Club also posted a tribute to Hannah, who had played for the club as a junior lion and had been 'much-loved' by her peers.
As police continue to investigate the tragedy, locals say hidden debris like tree stumps have been discovered in Lake Keepit (pictured) following a year of floods
'Hannah will be remembered as an outstanding young lady who had a bright future both on and off the rugby field,' the tribute read.
'Hannah's peers held her in high regard and she always demonstrated the true values of the Quirindi Junior Rugby Union Club.'
As police continue to investigate the tragedy, locals say after a year of floods hidden debris like tree stumps have been discovered in Lake Keepit.
They say the layout of the popular waterway has changed substantially and that higher water levels meant trees can sometimes be concealed beneath the surface.
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