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Join the Baw Baw Shire candlelight vigil at the West Gippsland Arts Centre to honour victims of family violence on 7 May 2025

Community members are invited to the candlelight vigil on 7 May at the West Gippsland Arts Centre to honour domestic violence victims. Local services will provide support, resources, and referrals during the event.

By news@gippsland - 22nd April 2025 - Back to News

Community members are invited to join in a candlelight vigil on the evening of Wednesday 7 May as the West Gippsland Arts Centre is lit up purple to honour the lives of women and children lost to domestic and family violence.

On Wednesday, 07 May 2025, join the annual candlelight vigil to remember victims of family violence, with support services available

Remember, reflect and unite

The annual candlelight vigil first started by Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre is observed on the first Wednesday in May around Australia, on National Family Violence Remembrance Day, to remember the lives lost to the violence epidemic. The greater Gippsland area consistently records some of Victoria's highest rates of domestic and family violence.

Statistics released by the Gippsland Family Violence Alliance show that in 2024, Baw Baw Shire had the 23rd highest rates of family violence in the state. Additionally, Victoria Police responded to 1,324 calls for assistance relating to domestic violence, which is an increase by 16.96% on the previous 12 months. Sadly, 2 in 5 women, or 39 per cent, have experienced violence since the age of 15.

Cr Danny Goss invites the community to join in the candlelight vigil and stand in solidarity against family violence. "We're proud to join the many organisations across Australia set to light up local landmarks purple in honour of domestic and family violence victims. It's a small gesture with big meaning, and we hope that it can bring comfort, support and hope to those who have lost loved ones to violence", said the Mayor.

Hope, strength and support

East Ward Councillor Kate Wilson said the candlelight vigil serves as a symbol of hope, resilience and the collective will to bring change. "We know there is still much to be done in the Baw Baw community to eliminate family violence. No one should have to live in fear, and no one should feel they are alone."

"It's not always easy to ask for help, but if you or anyone you know needs resources and support, please come along to the candlelight vigil or reach out to Quantum Support Services and Gippsland Centre Against Sexual Assault who are experts in their fields", said Cr Wilson.

Join the candlelight vigil

• When: 5.45pm - 7.00pm on Wednesday 7 May 2025
• Where: West Gippsland Arts Centre Forecourt
• No RSVP is required, all welcome
• Community members can bring their own electronic candle or use one supplied at night

Baw Baw Shire Council is partnering with Quantum Support Services and Gippsland Centre Against Sexual Assault for this event to raise awareness of the high levels of domestic violence in the community. Both organisations will be in attendance on the night to provide resources, referrals, advice and support. For more information about the candlelight vigil event, go to Baw Baw Candlelit Vigil - National Day of Remembrance page.

Pictures from Baw Baw Shire Council website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com