Over 100 community members gathered at the Bairnsdale rotunda last Wednesday night (May 6) for the first East Gippsland Candlelight Vigil, held to remember lives lost to family and domestic violence.
The vigil was supported by East Gippsland Shire Council in partnership with the Partners in Violence Prevention (PVP) network, Gippsland Community Legal Services and local health and community service organisations.
Speaking at the vigil, Family, Youth and Children’s Services Executive Manager Kathy Dickinson said East Gippsland continues to record the highest rate of reported family violence in Victoria.
“There is a lot of violence in our community,” Kathy said. “The system is overwhelmed and we know that what is reported is still only the tip of the iceberg.”
Kathy said family violence occurs across all socio-economic groups and is most often perpetrated by someone known to the victim. She highlighted the long-lasting effects on children and families, and the fear many women continue to experience even when intervention orders are in place.
“We also know that violence often follows a cycle and can include periods of calm, apologies, hope, followed by a build-up and an explosion of harm.
“That cycle traps people. It makes leaving difficult. And it makes outside support crucial,” she said.
Kathy said preventing family violence requires community-wide responsibility, including accountability for perpetrators and action from workplaces, sporting clubs, families and social circles.
“Silence helps no one. Being a bystander helps no one,” she said.
One of the programs highlighted on the night was the Men’s Behaviour Change Program, which works with men who have used family violence.
The program runs for around six months, with participants attending weekly two-hour group sessions.
“What we see is that when men engage meaningfully, behaviour can change and families can be safer. When there is no accountability, the harm continues, and people cycle back through crisis again and again,” Kathy said.
The vigil concluded with one minute of reflection, remembering those who have lost their lives to family violence.
To access East Gippsland support services, call The Orange Door on 1800 512 358.
