Outrage and anger are building in the Victorian community of Ballarat after another woman was allegedly murdered on the weekend.
“It has to stop,” Allan said.
“Not even 100 days into 2024. But already in Australia, 18 women have been murdered.”
“That’s not just some cold statistic – it’s 18 women who’ve had their lives stolen from them.
“I know all over our state, women will read that number and feel it deeply. And again – we’ll be called on ‘to be careful’. To triple-check the locks. Cross the street. Avoid dressing in a certain way – so we don’t stand out.
“We’ll continue to clench our keys between our fingers. Track our friends’ journeys home. Walk or run, one earbud out… just in case. All the things women do every day to ‘stay safe’.
“It’s an exhausting burden – and one that to put it bluntly, doesn’t belong to us.”
“Women deserve to be safe. In our homes, in our workplaces and on our streets. I’m angry. I’m tired,” Allan continued.
“But I’m more determined than ever. We must do better. For Hannah. For Sam. For Swetha (Madhagani). For every woman who has lost her life. For every woman who fears she might be next.”
Women’s Health Grampians chief executive Marion Hendren said it was time to call out inappropriate comments and actions in the community.
“I think this community is shocked by what has happened in the last two months. This is not a Ballarat problem or issue,” she said.
“It so happens that Ballarat has had a really intense couple of months with regards to gender violence. But this sadly is an issue across our whole country.”
Community rallies around family
Ballarat Mayor Des Hudson said the community would continue to “wrap their arms around each other” during times of crisis.
The Clunes community, where McGuire was from, has rallied around the family, with the local cricket club launching an online fundraiser, which has surpassed $50,000.
The National Hotel Clunes, which is owned by the family will roepen today, after closing due to “unforeseen circumstances” on Friday.
”The pub will be open as normal on Wednesday, we’ll leave you in the capable hands of Johnny Hind for a few days,” the Facebook Page said.
Thank you everyone for your love, support and kind words.
“Our hearts are broken.’You weren’t just a star to us. You were our whole damn sky.’ Miss you Princess!”
Young will return to court for a committal mention on September 19.
National Domestic Violence Service: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).
If you are in immediate danger call triple zero (000).
