MELBOURNE, AU — The Pan After community is grieving the tragic and unexpected loss of Tessa “Tess” Bell, a deeply cherished staff member who died following a fatal accident earlier this week. Her sudden passing has left colleagues, friends, and patrons heartbroken, as they remember the woman whose warmth, kindness, and vibrant spirit made her the very heartbeat of the popular Melbourne venue.
Tess was much more than a dedicated team member—she was a pillar of compassion, creativity, and community. Whether she was greeting guests with her signature smile, handling front-of-house responsibilities with grace, or sharing laughter with regulars over coffee, Tess radiated a calming presence that touched everyone who crossed her path.
Her love for music, art, and people was evident in every moment she spent at Pan After. She brought a personal, human touch to her work, uplifting those around her with quiet strength and genuine care. Friends describe her as someone who always made time for others, who offered comfort without question, and who left a lasting impression with her gentle soul and generous heart.
While details surrounding the fatal accident have not been publicly disclosed, the shock and sorrow following her death have reverberated across the Melbourne arts and hospitality scene. In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, Pan After honored Tess’s life:
“Tess wasn’t just one of us—she was us. A friend, a sister, a shining light. Her memory will forever be part of the soul of this space.”
In the wake of her passing, the venue has announced a temporary closure, allowing staff, regulars, and the wider community time to mourn and reflect on her life. Plans for a memorial gathering at Pan After are currently underway, where friends, coworkers, and supporters will be invited to celebrate Tess’s legacy.
Tessa Bell is remembered not only for her hard work but for the joy, empathy, and connection she brought into every room. Her absence has left an irreplaceable void, but her influence—and the love she gave so freely—will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew her.
As her community grieves, they hold onto the beauty she brought into the world, and the way she made it a better, kinder place simply by being herself.
May she rest in peace.