Vigil to Take Place Tonight at Branxton After Greta Bus Tragedy

BY JACQUELYN RICHARDS

Members of a heartbroken Hunter community will gather in Branxton tonight for a vigil in honor of the victims and emergency service workers involved in the horrific bus crash at Greta last Sunday. 

Ten lives were claimed in the tragedy and thirteen people remain in hospitals across the Hunter and Sydney. 

Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi says the event is important for those who wish to pay their respects and thank everyone involved in recovery and support efforts. 

"It is an absolute tragedy for the community, and not only the community of the Hunter but a tragedy for Australia," he said. 

"It certainly is important to thank everybody involved in this and whilst we are mourning with this tragic loss, they do an amazing job the first responders and anyone in the services area do amazing things and keep people safe and secure."

The vigil will start at 5:30pm on the grassed area in front of Huntlee's Early Learning Centre on Wine Country Drive.

Community crisis centres are still running at the Singleton Youth Venue and Branxton Community Hall for those in need of disaster relief and counselling.  

Lifeline is also available for support via the crisis support line: 13 11 14. 

 

Sourced: Newcastle Herald website

Candlelight Vigil to Commemorate Hunter's Domestic Violence Victims

BY DAKOTA TAIT

A candlelight vigil will be held to commemorate the Hunter's victims of domestic violence on Wednesday night.

On average one woman or child loses their life to domestic violence every week.

Survivors of domestic and family abuse, frontline workers, and other allies will gather at the Old Tram Sheds in Foreshore Park at 5:30pm, for a vigil from 6pm to 7pm.

Attendees are asked to bring a candle, torch, or lantern.