Geelong Candlelight Vigil 2026

The Geelong Candlelight Vigil is dedicated to honouring the women and children who have been tragically killed as a result of family and domestic violence. It’s an opportunity for the local community to come together to remember, to stand in solidarity, and to ensure the people behind the statistics are never forgotten.

The event holds space for people to grieve and acknowledge their loved ones, while sharing messages of hope and support, offering a sense of community for those living with the trauma of family violence.

Each year, on the first Wednesday in May, the Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre hosts its annual Candlelight Vigil as part of National Family Violence Remembrance Day, marking the beginning of Domestic Violence Prevention Month.

This year, we are honoured to welcome Courtney Ugle – a proud Ballardong/Wardandi Noongar woman, VFLW footballer, domestic violence advocate, and CEO and founder of Waangkiny – to share her lived experience.

Courtney’s early life was shaped by profound trauma, including the tragic loss of both her parents at a young age. Courtney was just 19 when her mother was murdered in a domestic violence homicide that now drives her advocacy and commitment to creating safer communities. She’s one of at least 1,000 children and young people who have lost a parent in this way.

At the Geelong Candlelight Vigil, Courtney will share her story, her truth, and her unwavering commitment to building safer communities. Her voice lights the path toward healing, connection, and collective courage as we come together to honour those we have lost and stand united against family and domestic violence.

We will then unite in remembrance, honouring those who have lost their lives to family and domestic violence, as well as those who continue to live with its impact.

This is a free event, however, registrations are essential, please register via Geelong Candlelight Vigil 2026  

If you are experiencing or are at risk of family violence or sexual assault, contact:

The SAFV Centre on 5222 4318 or reception@safvcentre.org.au

Barwon Orange Door (business hours) on 1800 312 820

Safe Steps (24 Hours) on 1800 015 188

In an emergency, call triple zero (000)