General News
1 May, 2026
Candlelight vigil to shine light on family violence
NEXT Wednesday will see family and sexual violence advocates, specialist sector leaders and community members gather for the Warrnambool Candlelight Vigil.
The vigil, held on the first Wednesday of May, honours and remembers the women and children who have been killed because of family violence.
It also provides a space for people to grieve, acknowledge the individuals behind the statistics, and share messages of hope, support and community for those impacted by violence.
Figures show that on average in Australia, one woman a week is killed by a current or former partner,
In the Warrnambool local government area, reported family violence incidents increased by 15 per cent over the last financial year.
The Warrnambool Candlelight Vigil forms part of the state-wide Safe Steps Candlelight Vigil and coincides with National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day on May 6.
As part of the vigil, landmarks will be illuminated in purple to raise awareness of family violence.
In Warrnambool, these landmarks will include Lighthouse Theatre and the Fletcher Jones silver ball which will light up in purple on the night – demonstrating their commitment to supporting those impacted and to preventing family violence.
