Heath Ledger remembered at beach memorial a year after his death

Heath Ledger’s family gathered on a beach in his native Australia yesterday as a memorial to the star who died a year ago.

His sister and two half sisters, along with his mother and father gathered at the Indiana Tea Room on Perth’s Cottesloe Beach - where his wake took place last February - to remember the Brokeback Mountain star.

After the private service, his older sister Kate read a statement on behalf of the family, saying: “We are still all nursing broken hearts. Like anyone who loses a family member, it has opened our eyes to the intense suffering and painful journey that is death.”

Heath died a year ago yesterday of an accidental drug overdose in his home in New York. He was survived by his daughter Matilda from his former relationship with Michelle Williams. Speaking about her niece, Kate added: “Michelle is doing an amazing job with ‘our girl’ and together we will cherish every moment of her steps through life.”

On the anniversary of his death, Heath was named as a Oscar nominee in the Best Supporting Actor category for his performance in The Dark Knight. His half-sister Ashleigh added: “Although we would love to have him here with us we are so proud and so excited on his behalf.

“In Heath’s words, he had the time of his life portraying The Joker and said that it was the most fun he’d ever had working on a film.

“We will take this opportunity today to honor his wonderful life and take comfort in knowing Heath will continue to touch future generations through this amazing art form.” What an unbelievable legacy he has left for Matilda and our family.”