ENOUGH IS ENOUGH – COMMUNITY GATHERS TO REMEMBER VICTIMS AND FIGHT BACK AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Morisset, NSW – Another young woman’s life was taken this week — another name added to the growing list of women murdered by those who once claimed to love them.
It’s not an isolated tragedy. It’s a national emergency, and it’s tearing families and communities apart.
Southlakes Anglican Church is calling on the people of the Hunter to come together and take a stand at a Community Remembrance Service on Thursday, 27 November, from 9:15 AM for a 9:30 start at 33 Newcastle Street, Morisset.
“This is our moment to stop saying ‘someone should do something’ and start saying ‘we will.’”
— Rev. Melinda McMahon, Rector of Southlakes Anglican Church
STANDING IN SOLIDARITY – FROM GRIEF TO ACTION
The service will honour all those whose lives have been shattered by domestic violence — the victims, survivors, and families left behind.
Reverend Melanie Whalley, Rector of Toronto Anglican Church, will share a message of hope and healing, while Wendy Cramp, founder of Jhouse, will speak about her mission to build a women’s refuge right here in our region — a safe haven that could save lives.
After the service, the community will gather at the Red Bench, where people can write the name of a victim or survivor on a small cross — a powerful act of remembrance that says: you are not forgotten, and you are not alone.
A COMMUNITY IN CRISIS
In the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region, domestic-violence-related assaults have surged by nearly 13% in the past two years. In the Lower Hunter, nine incidents are reported every single day.
“These numbers are not statistics — they are mothers, daughters, sisters, friends. One of them could have been your neighbour. One could have been you,” said Rev. McMahon. “We can’t look away anymore. Silence costs lives.”
A CALL TO THE HEART
Southlakes Anglican is inviting the community — men and women, young and old — to join hands, hearts, and voices.
“This isn’t about blame,” said Elizabeth Bissaker, President of the Mother’s Union.
“It’s about courage — the courage to show up, to speak up, and to be the community that says, ‘Not here. Not anymore.’”
MEDIA INVITATION
Media are strongly encouraged to attend this event to help amplify a message our community desperately needs to hear.
Visual opportunities:
- Red Bench remembrance with symbolic crosses
- Interviews with speakers and local advocates
- Footage of the community united in prayer and resolve
Event Details:
📍 Southlakes Anglican Church, 33 Newcastle Street, Morisset
🗓 Thursday, 27 November
⏰ Arrivals from 9:15 AM | Service begins 9:30 AM
