FAMILY and community members have gathered at Cassius Turvey’s memorial tree in Middle Swan to pay their respects on what should have been his 16th birthday.

Flowers, cards and wreathes were laid at the memorial tree after encouragement from Cassius’ loved ones.

Cassius’ mother Mechelle Turvey and his friends Mohammed and Tishawn thanked everyone who visited and paid their respects at the memorial.

“We’re grateful for the support from the community, family, schools and everyone else who wished Cassius a happy birthday,’’ his friends said.

Ms Turvey said some of the people who paid their respects and left flowers and gifts were people who did not know Cassius.

She said she just wanted to thank everyone from all his family and to say that Cassius’ memorial tree was for everyone to attend at anytime.

“Sometimes people don’t go there because they see family there and they think it is intrusive,’’ she said.

“Actually if people are parked there and won’t get out of their car I can invite them (to) come and sit with me.”

She visits the memorial tree a couple of times a week.

“I go when the sun is going down because I like the light.

“It’s a special moment when the tree lights up because Cassius loved sparkly lights.’’

Cassius and his niece Saraia were born on the same day in the same hospital and a private shared birthday gathering had been held with many of Cassius’ friends and family.

She said although it had been a highly emotional day it was important to for her to acknowledge the occasion.

Cassius was allegedly attacked with a metal pole as he walked in Middle Swan in October last year. Four people have been charged and are due to face trial in 2025.