Echuca takes a stand to stop violence against women

The event kicked off at 4pm and opened with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Sonya Parsons.

Echuce Regional Health executive director community and Campaspe Family Actions Group deputy chair Cynthia Robins then shared a speech, written with the help of her daughter Mia Opie.

During her speech, Ms Robins called for everyone to rally together to support the cause.

“This is a time to stand together, amplify the voices of women and children, and commit to breaking the silence that allows violence to persist,” she said.

“I speak to you as a representative of our local health service and as a member of a community action group committed to addressing the high rates of family violence in our region.

“Together, we have taken steps to create awareness and foster support systems that aim to prevent violence and assist survivors.”

She added that the work would continue, and encouraged everyone to persist in their support.

“The road to ending violence against women and children is long, and we must remain relentless in our pursuit of change,” she said.

The markets also featured stalls by local businesses run by women, such as Erin Arnott Learning, Nom the Label, Gold Craft Designs and Leary Knot.

ERH and The Orange Door also had stalls to share information and to answer any questions attendees had.

Local musician Amelia May kept attendees entertained with a live acoustic set.

The Port Ice Cream truck and Kev’s Crepes were also present to feed the crowd.

The event was created by ERH in collaboration with Campaspe Shire Council.