Thursday, 6 August, 2026
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100 Days Brighter Clyde Grammar celebrated a significant milestone as its Foundation students reached 100 days of school. The occasion recognised how much the children have developed since starting their education, with a day of colourful activities, creative learning and fun. Many students and teachers embraced the celebration by dressing in bright outfits and costumes, adding to the festive atmosphere. The event also highlighted the confidence, friendships and independence the students have gained during their first months at school. Teachers praised the children’s enthusiasm, resilience and willingness to learn. For more pictures, go to page 14 Ameya with Foundation teacher Deanne (Stewart Chambers: 568790)
Powerful message By Violet Li and Jensy Callimootoo Violence against women has cast a shadow over the South East. On Sunday, the candles lit at a Casey vigil for the alleged murder of Brooke Stephens carried a powerful message: no woman should ever feel unsafe in her own home. But for one survivor in the South-East, that safety still feels out of reach. Star News spoke to a family violence survivor Mia (*not her real name) about the abuse she en-
dured and the struggle to find safety, housing and financial support after leaving. After years of police reports, intervention orders, Child Protection involvement and specialist family violence support, Mia said she and her young daughter still have no permanent home they can safely return to. She had been told the wait for public housing could take years. According to the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH), the expected waiting
time for a priority allocation due to family violence in 2025-26 was 18.1 months. Waiting times depend on property availability and demand in the areas an applicant chooses. Meanwhile, her estranged husband, who allegedly strangled her with a hammer and poured petrol on himself and her home earlier this year, was released from custody after receiving a 90day prison sentence that had already been served. Mia’s ordeal comes as the South East contin-
ues to confront the devastating consequences of family violence. Not that far away in Clyde North, mother-of-two Brooke Stephens died in hospital after emergency services were called, with her partner later charged with murder and remanded in custody. Thousands gathered at a vigil on Sunday 2 August to remember Ms Stephens, where friends declared that no woman should ever feel unsafe in her own home. For more on these stories, go to page 4, 12 and 13
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