Arabic version: مئات يكرّمون بروك ستيفنز في وقفة تأبينية بكلايد نورث

According to ABC News, hundreds gathered at Smiths Park Playground in Clyde North on Sunday to honour Melbourne mother Brooke Stephens, one week after she was allegedly murdered in her home. Stephens, 29, died after her partner allegedly attacked her inside their Clyde North home on July 26.

Her partner, 32-year-old Jorden Turney, has been charged with murder and is due to face a committal hearing in November. As the sun set over the park in Melbourne’s south-east, friends, family and supporters shared memories of Stephens, including her love of basketball, which she coached. Photos and mementos were displayed during the vigil.

Family member Kelly-Ann Faulkner said the family was still in shock and spoke about Stephens’ two sons. Lachlan Timmins remembered Stephens as a “beautiful, loving sister” and a good role model for her children. Vigil organiser Em Ross said the gathering was intended to acknowledge Stephens’ life, those who loved her, and the loss felt by her family, friends and the wider community.

As darkness fell, attendees lit and passed around candles before observing a minute’s silence. When the 500 candles prepared for the event had been taken, people raised mobile phones and shone their lights into the night. Family violence campaigner Sherele Moody, from Australian Femicide Watch, attended and described domestic and family violence as a continuing epidemic, calling for fully funded support services.