Vigil honours victims of domestic violence and calls for community action

WOMEN’S Health Northern Rivers has hosted a vigil at the Lismore Quad to honour victims of domestic violence, while also providing support and information to families, survivors and frontline workers.

The gathering was held to raise awareness of the support services available locally, and to highlight the role community organisations play in prevention and early intervention.

Guest speakers included local advocate Naomi Moran, NSW Treaty Commissioner and Advocate for Empowering Community Voice, who joined community members in reflecting on the ongoing impact of domestic and family violence in the region.

“Domestic and family violence continues to devastate families across the Northern Rivers,” Women’s Health Northern Rivers acting chief executive Emma Siegel said.

“Women and children are disproportionately affected, and we cannot look away. This is a crisis that demands a united community response.”

“Violence is not a private issue; it is a whole-of-community issue. Every one of us has a role to play in creating safety, accountability and change.”

A key feature of the vigil was the Counting Dead Women art installation by Paulette Hayes, which provided a confronting visual representation of lives lost to domestic violence.

Local support services were also in attendance, offering people the opportunity to ask questions and connect with support networks and information.

According to NSW Police, there were 37,828 domestic assault incidents recorded last year, with rates in regional and remote areas up to seven times higher than in metropolitan areas.

Organisers said the vigil aligned with their ongoing mission to build a society where all relationships are free from abuse.

“Women’s Health Northern Rivers is committed to prevention, early intervention, and accessible support,” Siegel said.

“Events like this help us raise awareness, strengthen community resolve, and advocate for the resources women need and deserve.”