A VIGIL has been organised in Mount Gambier’s Cave Gardens to honour 44-year-old grandmother Rachel Martin who lost her life as a result of domestic violence this week.
Organisers Limestone Coast Family Violence Action Group are encouraging community members to attend Monday’s vigil and stand in solidarity with all affected by domestic and family violence.
Group member Nik Tilley said the vigil will ask those in attendance to quietly reflect on the events of July 11 and unite those grieving for Ms Martin.
“We want to honour the loss of Rachel and stand together as a community to show support to Rachel’s friends and family,” she said.
“We also want to show that we say no to violence against women and children and it is not okay.”
Ms Martin’s body was discovered by police inside her Chestnut Close home on Sunday morning.
Luke Raymond Simpson, 34, has been charged with her murder.
Simpson appeared via video link in the Mount Gambier Magistrates Court on Monday and will remain in custody until his next court appearance in October.
The vigil will start at noon on Monday, July 19.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call:
1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au
Family Violence Crisis and Support Service on 1800 608 122
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491
