Berninneit candle vigil for family violence

Berninneit in Cowes was bathed in purple last Wednesday to mark National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day.

Bass Coast Shire Council hosted Phillip Island's vigil, a more intimate event this year, to create "a local space for reflection, connection and hope".

Chris Buckingham, Labor candidate for Bass, said at the Cowes event not all disrespect towards women resulted in violence.

"But all violence towards women starts with disrespectful behaviour," said Chris.

"As men we have a collective responsibility to treat women and girls with respect."

While remembrance remains central to the event, held annually on the first Wednesday in May, this year's event focussed on the enduring effects of violence beyond the immediate crisis.

One in six Australian women experience family, domestic and sexual violence, Australian Institute of Health and Welfare figures reveal.

In 2025 alone, 77 women and 26 children were killed by parents or intimate partners, according to the Red Heart Campaign.

Bass Coast is not immune: the Crime Statistic Agency recorded more than 2000 incidents of family violence in 2024-2025 - and that's only those that were reported to police.

Demand for services is also rising. Safe Steps, Victoria's 24/7 family violence response centre for confidential crisis support and information, reported a 17 per cent increase in contacts year-on-year, responding to more than 130,000 calls, emails and live chats in the 2024-2025 financial year.

Safe Steps is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, phone 1800 015 188, visit https://safesteps.org.au. If in immediate danger, please contact police on 000.