General News
6 May, 2026
Community shines light on family violence
The Wimmera community came together in Horsham on Monday night, May 4, for the annual Shine the Light on Family Violence candlelight walk and vigil.
Police, CFA and Ambulance Victoria representatives also attended the event, along with Horsham Rural City Council mayor Brian Klowss and representatives from The Orange Door and legal support services.
The walk started from Ward Street and ended at the soundshell in Sawyer Park.
Wimmera Committee Against Family Violence member and one of the organisers, Simone O’Brien, said the event attracted a strong crowd despite the weather.
“It was a really good turnout, with the weather the way it was as well,” Ms O’Brien said.
“I was surprised that there were all ages still turning up to be a part of the event, which was absolutely fantastic, and just as many males as females, if not a little bit more, which was truly amazing.
“To make a change in this space, we need males’ help to be able to stop this crisis.”
Ms O’Brien said the turnout was difficult to count from the front of the walk, but estimated about 150.
She said raising awareness remained vital for Horsham and the wider Wimmera community.
“It’s so important, but especially with our next generations growing up, because of the crisis we’re in,” she said.
“We need to have their mindsets change, so that we can pick up people who are doing something wrong.
“It’s okay to ask for help if you are in a crisis situation, and don’t be afraid to talk about it.
“That was my messaging - let’s turn this into a positive and let’s help each other in this space, and let’s have the community working as a team in this, not all individuals.”
Ms O’Brien said the event had continued to grow each year, with more men joining the walk.
“The number of men there last night was amazing, truly amazing,” she said.
“I do believe that there were more men than women in the walk, and kudos to the community for doing that, because that means that men are realising that we need to make a change and help protect our next generations.
“That’s setting a good precedent for their young males that they may have under their wing.”
Ms O’Brien spoke to the attendees at the soundshell alongside HRCC mayor, Police representative and other support services representatives.
She said the walk attracted people from Horsham and surrounding towns, making it a wider community event.
“I believe it was more of the Wimmera community, not just a Horsham community,” she said.
Ms O’Brien said her message to people affected by family violence was that support was available.
“I just want to let them know that you’re not alone if you are the victim or the perpetrator in this space, that there is help there, and we’re here to help each other get through this,” she said.
“And any little red flag is a big red flag.”
Ms O’Brien thanked the community for supporting the walk.
“Can’t thank you enough, as I’m so grateful that you all turned up for such an important event that needs to keep being bigger and better each year, as the stats aren’t good in our local community,” she said.
“If we can work as a team doing this, we’re going to help each other in the long run.”