Mother of Mount Gambier woman Eden Kennett, allegedly killed by partner, breaks down at Women’s Wave rally

The grieving mother of Mt Gambier woman Eden Kennett has broken down during a rally to highlight the 69 women killed as a result of domestic violence last year in Australia.

Five South Australians were killed as a result of domestic violence last year, including Mt Gambier woman Eden Kennett who died just before Christmas.

On Sunday, Eden’s mother Tammy Simpson broke down with grief while taking part in a peaceful protest honouring 69 women from around the nation who died at the hands of abusive partners or family members in 2018.

Speaking through tears, a devastated Ms Simpson told The Advertiser that her daughter had been able to save the lives of three people through organ donation after her death.

She has also pleaded with relatives and friends of people experiencing violence or abuse to speak out on their behalf.

The rally for the 60 women killed as a result of domestic violence in 2018. Picture: AAP / Mark Brake

Tammy Simpson, the mother of victim Eden Kennett, is comforted by her daughter Charnna-Lee during the rally. Picture: AAP / Mark Brake

“Eden’s one life has changed three families that she’s made much happier and healthier,” said Ms Simpson, 47.

“They had a good Christmas. That was her present to them.”

Ms Kennett, 25, died in hospital in Mt Gambier on December 14 after she was assaulted. Her partner, Bradley Wayne Trussell, 27, has been charged with her murder.

Ms Simpson, who was supported at the Women’s Wave protest by her younger daughter Charnna-Lee, 21, remembered her older daughter as “cheeky, funny, out there and very straightforward”.

Ms Kennett endured a turbulent upbringing, her mother said, after witnessing abuse in her family home, and grew into a rebellious teenager who left home at age 15.

She had been in an “on and off”, controlling relationship with Trussell, she said.

“I’m very angry,” Ms Simpson said. “I still haven’t grieved properly yet.”

She pleaded with anyone who suspected their friend or relative was experiencing violence in their relationship to “tell someone”.

“It’s worth them being angry with you in the beginning. They won’t stay angry forever because they will be safe,” she said.

The family is planning a private funeral ceremony for Ms Kennett.

Trussell has been remanded in custody and will face court again in August.

For support phone 1800 RESPECT or the Domestic Violence Crisis Line on 1800 800 098.

*********

SPECIAL SUBSCRIPTION OFFER: $1 FOR FIRST 28 DAYS

Every story + App access + Digital print edition + Exclusive rewards
No lock-in contract. Limited time offer. Find out more and sign up here