Candlelight vigil will honour Toowoomba mother Louise Hunt and domestic violence victims
Beloved Toowoomba mother Louise Hunt will be remembered at a candlelight vigil in her honour.
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In the wake of the devastating loss of a beloved family woman, a candlelight vigil will be held in her honour.
Domestic and family violence support centre Protea Place, with the blessing of Ms Hunt’s family, will host a community vigil to commemorate Toowoomba mother Louise Hunt who was allegedly murdered by her partner at their Geham home on April 15.
“The community is desperately wanting to support the family, and the family is so appreciative of that support,” Protea Place chief executive Amanda Dalton said.
“This is a way to show our love and support for Louise and her family, and this is just a small way that we can come together as a community and honour her.”
Ms Hunt’s brother Anton Griffiths said the family was touched by the community response but wished for any financial donations to go towards helping women impacted by domestic violence.
“On behalf of the family, I express their deep appreciation for the love and support of the community at the tragic circumstances and passing of Louise,” Mr Griffiths said.
“We are extremely grateful; however, ask that those wishing to make a financial donation please donate to Protea Place or their preferred charity supporting women.
“This would be what Louise would want and is the best way to honour her memory at this time.”
Ms Hunt was a proud supporter of Protea Place and was a passionate advocate for domestic and family violence prevention in her community.
It is understood Ms Hunt worked with the organisation solely as an advocate for the important work they undertake.
The vigil was originally planned as part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, a way to remember those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic violence; it is a vigil Ms Hunt would have attended.
Now, it is her who will be honoured.
“This event was not intended as a vigil for Louise but that is what it has now become because we had no way of knowing that she wouldn’t be there supporting it, that she would be there being remembered,” Ms Dalton said.
“Here we are, gathering to honour and remember her along with far too many other women; this has to stop.”
The vigil, which will be held in May, aligns with Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, an initiative to remember those impacted by domestic and family violence and coercive control and raise awareness for survivor support services and prevention programs.
“We are sick of having to remember women, we want them in our lives – we want them living safe in our lives and in their family’s lives,” Ms Dalton said.
“We need to continue to raise our voice and stamp out domestic and family violence.
“It’s an absolute scourge in our community, in every community, and no one is immune from this.”
Led by the Queensland Police Service Chaplain, the candlelight ceremony will take place in the gardens of Gip’s Restaurant on Tuesday, May 13 from 5.30pm.
Queensland Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Minister Amanda Camm has pledged to be in attendance.
Last week Toowoomba mayor Geoff McDonald shared his condolences over the death of Ms Hunt.
“We are heartbroken by the tragic and senseless loss in our community,” he said.
“Our deepest condolences go out to all who are grieving. No one should ever have their life taken by violence.
“Let’s stand united in our commitment to creating a safer future for all.
“May the memory of Louise be a light in the darkness.”
All members of the community are welcome to attend and pay tribute to Ms Hunt.
To donate to Louise’s Legacy and support Protea Place, go to https://rememberinglouise.gofundraise.com.au/
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