A small crowd braved the weather to attend Ellen Cove for the candlelight vigil on Monday night.
UPDATE: The Albany community gathered at Ellen Cove last night to launch the 16 Days in WA campaign, marking a critical moment to confront the grim realities of domestic violence. The vigil, held on November 20, 2023, started with a moment of silence as attendees lit candles in memory of victims, emphasizing the urgent need for action against domestic abuse.
The rain paused just before the event began, creating a somber yet hopeful atmosphere. Pamela Watts, a counsellor from the Southern Aboriginal Corporation, led the vigil, while Jan Leamon, a survivor of domestic violence, shared her harrowing journey and the power of community support. “Things are a lot different to 14 years ago when I was a victim of domestic violence, and now I call myself a survivor,” Leamon stated, underlining the importance of reaching out for help.
Leamon called for systemic change, urging officials to adopt measures similar to those in Queensland that remove perpetrators from homes, allowing victims to remain safe in their environments. “I found I had the strength to change my life,” she said, inspiring many in attendance to seek help and support.
Highlighting the severity of the issue, Sgt. Lorena Simpson from Great Southern police revealed alarming statistics from the 2024-2025 reporting period. “There were over 100,000 calls for help to the WA Police for domestic violence, with 42,000 of those resulting in assaults being reported,” she stated. The figures reflect an 18% increase from the previous year, illustrating that over 100 victims report incidents daily. Tragically, 18 lives were lost last year due to domestic violence homicides, turning statistics into heartbreaking realities for families across the region.
“These aren’t just numbers; they represent families living in fear and children witnessing harm,” Simpson stressed, emphasizing that these figures do not capture the full extent of the suffering endured behind closed doors. The community’s collective response is vital, as it can foster education and support for those seeking help.
As the vigil progressed, Watts recited her poignant poem “Dream Dress,” shedding light on the lasting impact of domestic violence on women and their aspirations. The emotional gathering concluded with attendees writing the word “unite” in the sand, surrounded by shells and driftwood, symbolizing their commitment to standing against violence.
The Albany community’s urgent call to action resonates widely. As the 16 Days in WA campaign continues, officials and community leaders urge everyone to participate actively in raising awareness, supporting victims, and advocating for systemic change.
As this campaign unfolds, the Albany community remains dedicated to shining a light on domestic violence and fostering a safer, more supportive environment for all. Stay tuned for more updates as the 16 Days in WA campaign progresses.
