The sentiment about violence against women is gaining traction daily, with a sharp increase in volume and quantity of both women and men speaking out. Over the weekend, thousands of people attended protests and rallies, calling for lasting cultural change.

This week, on Wednesday evening, to honour women and children who have lost their lives, a peaceful vigil of Remembrance and Hope has been planned by NORWACS - Northern Rivers Women and Children's Services.

“It’s been a tragic and unsettling time for women in Australia.”

For one hour, between 5.30 and 6.30pm, at the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, you are invited to bring a candle and a flower to commemorate those who have died this year, in particular those from the Northern Rivers. 

An alarming figure of 28 Women have been murdered this year, by partners, family and strangers - the murders of women committed at Bondi Junction earlier this month has escalated the issue.  

Remembrance

Alice White from NORWACS says the evening will be one to reflect on those who have tragically died and consider the impact this has had on so many members of the community.

“It will be an emotional yet powerful night,” Alice said. “We are going to name and take a moment for each woman and child who has been murdered this year, light a candle in their honour and place flowers down for each of them.” 

Music and artwork will be incorporated into the event, and Mandy Nolan will speak. 

“It’s really a space to mourn the tragic murders in 2024, and remember these women who were let down. 

“We will emphasise the loss we've felt in this community of Donna Baraket, who was killed in Tweed Heads in February, and a woman in Evans Head in March. 

“Each of them matters; they matter to their family, friends, colleagues and community. These women are so much more than a statistic, than a news headline, and they deserve protection and to live a life free of violence.”

Hope

Alice speaks of the hope needed for a different future, “Domestic and family violence includes many forms of abuse, it's not always physical and it can affect everyone and anyone. 

“We don't want to remain silent and we certainly won't forget these women who have had their lives taken from them. This is happening here, in our backyard and in our homes. 

“As much as it's a night to come together and grieve, This vigil is a call to action to speak up, it's a call to bring domestic and family violence to the forefront so it's no longer hidden behind the curtains. Hope will start when there is a community gathering of people wanting the same thing.”

Some facts about domestic violence

The largest threat to women is from people they know and love. This is not a new problem. The following disturbing figures are from the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research and include incidents occurring in the home:

• Over 36,000 domestic violence-related assaults occurred in NSW during 2023. Over 22,000 cases of intimidation, stalking and harassment took place. 29 murders and 6 attempted murders took place.

The relationship between victim and perpetrator over the last five years, (until December 2023):

• 45% of all NSW murders were Domestic Violence (DV) related (139 of 309 total murder victims). 
• About half of DV murders involved intimate partner violence (IPV) – 45% or 62 victims. Intimate Partner Violence occurs between a current or ex spouse / partner / boy or girl friend.
• 79% of IPV murder victims were female - 49 victims. 

You are invited to be a part of the change in our city. The details:

• Wednesday 1st May, 2024
• 5.30 to 6.30pm
• Northern Rivers Conservatorium (Farmers Market Area)
• 152 Keen Street, Lismore
• Call (02) 6621 9800 for further enquiries.

Please bring a flower and candle.