Shining light on issue of family violence

GEELONG landmarks were lit up purple (right) on Wednesday night as part of Safe Steps’ candlelight vigil to honour and remember women and children who have lost their lives due to family violence.

The Sexual Assault & Family Violence (SAFV) Centre and Bethany Community Support hosted the vigil with the City of Greater Geelong.

SAFV Centre acting chief executive Mary Cowell said the vigil was an opportunity to reflect and remember, while bringing light to the national crisis of family violence.

“The impact on women and children who live with family violence is devastating and long-lasting,” Ms Cowell said.

“While family violence is prevalent, it is preventable.

“We need to come together as a community to prevent family violence – we all have a role to play.”

Bethany chief executive Grant Boyd said he saw the community as playing a vital role in preventing and standing up against family violence.

“It’s great to see so many Geelong businesses … turning their building lights purple to create community awareness and help lift the veil of silence that surrounds family violence,” he said.

Geelong deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said: “Council is committed to addressing family and domestic violence, through primary prevention, collaboration, and a commitment to addressing genderbased discrimination.”

Illuminated locations included Geelong waterfront tree lights, the Shorts Place light projection, Johnstone Park rotunda, Geelong Arts Centre and Village Cinemas.