Thursday, 4 June, 2026
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Green Wedge clearfelled
Mayor memorial holds court
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Bail Justice speaks out
All in together by Jensy Callimootoo
Djarlo Dance Group performing a dance involving, ‘Bunjil’ the Wedge-tailed eagle. (Gary Sissons: 553211)
Djarlo Dance group was among the thrilling performances to grace the stage on National Reconciliation Day. The traditional dance performance and educational sessions provided further opportunities for cultural learning and engagement as many members of the community gathered at Bunjil Place. Hosted by the City of Casey, this year’s core theme in the journey to reconciliation is ‘All In’. In recognition of this, many settled in for an afternoon of performances, storytelling, cultural learning and Indigenous education sessions. Through music, storytelling and reflection, Indigenous communities reminded the audience of the importance of caring for nature and maintaining a strong connection to Country. Community stalls created space for meaningful conversations, learning and connection, while Connected Libraries hosted a special storytelling session featuring Come Together by Isaiah Firebrace, reinforcing the evening’s theme of unity. For more on this, go to page 12.
Violent ‘epidemic’ by Jensy Callimootoo A submission to Casey Council is calling for urgent action to address what has been described as an “epidemic” of family violence in the municipality. Wellsprings for Women CEO Dalal Smiley urged councillors to prioritise family violence prevention in the council’s advocacy plans and to push the Victorian Government for immediate
intervention measures. The call comes after family violence incidents in Casey increased by more than 10 per cent in 2024–25, rising from 5,737 to 6,519 reported incidents, the highest number recorded in Victoria. Smiley argued that the draft 2026–27 budget and advocacy action plan failed to reflect the severity of the crisis affecting women and children. She identified factors contributing to the high
rates of violence, including economic dependency, social isolation, health inequalities, and traditional gender roles. Casey’s economy, dominated by higher-paid male industries such as construction and manufacturing, creates a wider local gender pay gap, leaving many women financially dependent and more vulnerable to abuse. Smiley stressed that gender inequality is the
key driver of family violence, while social and economic disadvantage intensifies its impact. She advocated for a “saturation model” similar to Ballarat’s Respect Ballarat initiative, which coordinates community-wide prevention efforts. Smiley believes Casey Council should lead a coalition of local agencies to secure government support and implement long-term cultural and structural change.
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