Hundreds walk for domestic violence awareness after death of Lilie James

Hundreds of Sydneysiders have turned out to ‘say no’ to domestic and family violence in the wake of the shocking death of 21-year-old water polo coach Lilie James.

Hundreds of Sydneysiders have turned out to ‘say no’ to domestic and family violence in the wake of the shocking death of 21-year-old water polo coach Lilie James.

A crowd of more than 1000 took part in a 10km walk through the lower north shore on Sunday morning to raise awareness about the scourge of domestic violence and the rising rates of violence against women.

The annual walk organised by support service Mary’s House was held to support women and their children escaping domestic and family violence

The walk came days after 21-year-old Lilie James was found dead at St Andrews Cathedral School by police just before midnight on Wednesday

Police suspect Netherlands-born Paul Thijssen, who also worked at the school, beat her with a hammer after she broke off their five-week relationship.

Hundreds turned out for the 10km walk through the north shore on Sunday.

Yvette Vignando, chief executive of Mary’s House, said Sunday morning’s walk had seen about “four to five times” as many people turn out than the 400 who officially registered to attend.

“A lot of people have been talking about the terrible events of this week which have really crystallised the need to raise awareness,” she said.

“It’s been another shocking reminder that partner violence happens in Australia every week

“Domestic and family violence knows no postcode and can happen in any part of Sydney.”

Mary’s House chief executive Yvette Vignando and philanthropy manager Janine Wood.

Ms Vignando said the walk was also an opportunity for people to speak about domestic violence.

“Nine in 10 Australians believe DV is an issue that happens in Australia, but only five in 10 believe it’s an issue in their own suburb,” she said.

“The walk is a way for people to talk about domestic and family violence and to acknowledge it.

“The mood today is about reflection but at the same time we all feel hopeful.”

The walk comes after a vigil was held in Sans Souci on Saturday night where Lilie James was honoured by friends, family members and the wider community.

In a statement yesterday, Ms James’s family said they were “devastated and heartbroken” by the loss of their “beautiful” daughter.

Ms Vignando believes measures to address the rising rates of domestic violence include the establishment of specialist magistrates courts to oversee domestic violence cases to address court delays for apprehended violence orders.