Respects paid and hopes for brighter future

PEOPLE didn’t let the early onset of winter discourage them from attending Wednesday evening’s candlelight vigil in Leongatha, taking the opportunity to reflect quietly on the women and children who have lost their lives to domestic violence.

The still and chilly conditions were ideally suited to such contemplation.

Councillors, council staff and members of the public stood respectfully in the gentle purple light outside council’s Smith Street office holding their well-sheltered candles.

Leongatha local Kay Rodda spoke after the vigil about why she attended.

“About family violence, I think it’s vital that we as a community show our support for the women and children, even if it is simply by partaking in this vigil, and it’s crucial we get our community thinking about it,” Kay said.

During the vigil, attendees watched a video highlighting domestic violence statistics, including the fact children are present at 30 percent of family violence incidents attended by police, with such experiences potentially having lifelong ramifications.

Council staff featured in the video, with all those speaking knowing someone affected by domestic violence.

South Gippsland Shire mayor Nathan Hersey thanked all those who attended and spoke of the importance of addressing domestic violence.

He described the loss of lives in family violence situations as “a tragedy”, adding that is the case regardless of the age or gender of the victim.

“It is shocking, sad and unacceptable,” he said, adding the issue is not confined to any particular group in society.

Prior to the event, Cr Hersey acknowledged the greater risk faced by women and children in domestic violence situations.

“Our community can show solidarity and joint condemnation of this violence,” he said when outlining the importance of the candlelight vigil.

Candlelight vigils are held annually on the first Wednesday in May, with this national day of remembrance bringing communities together to light candles and stand in solidarity, mourning the loss of lives resulting from family violence.

Victoria Police recorded 528 family violence callouts in South Gippsland Shire during 2022 and 840 family violence callouts in Bass Coast Shire during that period.

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 737 732.

For counselling, advice and support for men who have anger, relationship or parenting issues, call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.