Join us for the Warrnambool Candlelight Vigil on Wednesday 6 May 2026, a reflective community event held on National Family Violence Remembrance Day.

Led by courageous survivors and passionate advocates, this event offers an opportunity for the South West community to come together to remember and honour lives lost to family and domestic violence, share stories of resilience, drive meaningful change, and ensure we never forget the people behind the statistics.

Held at the Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative 'Whale Room' overlooking the serene Hopkins River, the gathering will hold space for people to:

Grieve and acknowledge their loved ones and the impacts of family violence in our community.
Hear local family and sexual violence leaders and advocates speak about family violence in our community and share messages of hope and support.
Tie a ribbon and share a minute's silence to honour women and children's lives lost to violence.
Offer a sense of community for those living with the trauma of family violence.

Locally, buildings and landmarks across Warrnambool, including the Silver Ball, Lighthouse Theatre, and SW TAFE will glow purple as a powerful act of solidarity – bringing visibility to a national crisis and reminding victim‑survivors they are not alone.

There is no cost to attend but registration is essential - all are welcome.

Free bus pick up: Archie Graham Community Centre, 118 Timor Street

Pick up at 5.20pm. Return trip departs 7.00pm

Individuals under 18 must be accompanied by adult. Bus has 2 steps.

Tea & coffee and finger food will be served at the close of proceedings.

The Warrnambool Candlelight Vigil is proudly brought to you by a partnership of local and regional family and sexual violence organisations and services including The Wimmera South West Family Violence Partnership, Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative, The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre, The Orange Door - South West, Brophy Family & Youth Services, MPower, South West Centre Against Sexual Assault, South West TAFE and Warrnambool City Council.

Please note this event will discuss and contain stories of family violence.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are advised that this event may contain images, voices or names of deceased persons.

A counsellor will be available at the event to provide support.

If you or someone you know needs support, please contact:

Warrnambool Orange Door: 1800 271 180
The Sexual Assault & Family Violence Centre: (03) 5222 4318
Safe Steps (after-hours family violence support, 24/7): 1800 015 188
1800 RESPECT (counselling support, 24/7): 1800 737 732
If you are in immediate danger, please contact police on 000

Acknowledgment

The Warrnambool Candlelight Vigil respectfully acknowledges the Gunditjmara Traditional Owners of Country that the Vigil is taking place on and their Elders past and present.

Contact the host of Warrnambool Candlelight Vigil

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