MCLEOD'S DAUGHTERS TRIBUTE 'RACHAEL WAS A GIFT'

Remembered as a bright and beautiful soul, the actress has died at age 45

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The close-knit McLeod's Daughters cast is grief-stricken by the sudden, tragically early death of beloved costar Rachael Carpani.

The sunny, funny “baby” of the McLeod's family – who shot to fame as farm girl Jodi Fountain-McLeod – was only 45 when the chronic illness she had bravely battled for years finally claimed her life.

Announcing the news last week on behalf of parents Tony and Gael, sister Georgia revealed Rachael had “unexpectedly but peacefully passed away” on December 7.

BELOVED FRIEND

“We are reeling with the news of Rachael's passing,” Gold Logie winner Lisa Chappell tells Woman's Day, fighting back tears. “She was a treasured member of the McLeod's cast and an absolute joy to work with.”

The thrills and spills of filming at a rugged rural location in South Australia – and doing many of their own stunts – forged unbreakable friendships among the McLeod's cast and crew. And Lisa's bond with Rachael, playing half-sisters Jodi and Claire McLeod, was no exception.

“Rachael was a wonderful actress and comedienne and a ray of sunshine for those lucky enough to have crossed her path,” the dual Logie-winner sadly recalled. “I'm sorry I can't say more, but I'm so upset I just can't talk.”

'I loved Rach for her kindness, generosity to everyone'