Hundreds of people spent Mother’s Day marching in memory of Molly Ticehurst, a young mother whose life was allegedly taken by her ex-partner.
A large crowd gathered in Forbes, central western New South Wales, on Sunday to honor the local child care worker, 28, who was allegedly murdered in her home by her ex-partner, Daniel Billings, of 39 years old, April 22.
Billings was out on bail on charges including rape, harassment and intimidation when Ms Ticehurst’s alleged murder took place.
Locals walked around Lake Forbes on Sunday wearing white shirts emblazoned with Ms Ticehurst’s face and the words “Her name is Molly”.
The march came on a day the NSW government confirmed it will consider sweeping new laws aimed at protecting women from domestic violence.
Hundreds of people gathered in Forbes on Mother’s Day to walk for Molly Ticehurst (pictured), who was allegedly murdered on April 22.
Community members walked around Lake Forbes (pictured) while wearing bright T-shirts with Ms Ticehurst’s face and the words: “Her name is Molly.”
Some walkers, including Ms Ticehurst’s uncles Debbie and Fred Brown, carried signs for the deceased childcare worker.
“It’s been tough over the last few weeks but it’s good to see so much support in the town and how people are supporting each other,” Mr Brown said. ABC.
“It’s difficult, but it’s good to see that things are going to change from this, which is one of the best things.”
The walk was organized by Forbes local Cassandra Tyack.
“A lot of people didn’t know Molly, but she touched everyone’s hearts with what happened,” he told Nine News.
Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller tearfully described Ticehurst’s legacy in the small town.
Not a day goes by that I don’t think about Mrs. Ticehurst’s loved ones.
The death of Ms Ticehurst (pictured) has prompted the state cabinet to consider tougher bail laws for violent domestic abusers.
“Molly Ticehurst’s beautiful smile gives you an idea of what a strong and lovely young woman she was,” Cr Miller said.
‘We pay tribute to you, Molly, a dedicated educator and even more dedicated mother.
‘It’s fitting and heartbreaking that today is Mother’s Day.
‘A vibrant and positive teacher, Molly has touched the lives of thousands of children in our community…Molly made everything an adventure for her family and of course all her friends, we are heartbroken.’
Sunday also marked an important step towards improving laws to protect women when NSW Health Minister Ryan Park announced the government’s consideration of urgent reforms.
The walk (pictured) was attended by members of Ms Ticehurst’s family and Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller tearfully described the late child care worker’s legacy in the small town.
“We are determined to ensure the safety of women,” said Mr Park.
“That is our only goal at the moment, as too many women die at the hands of someone who is supposed to care for them.”
The state cabinet will on Monday consider reforms that could see bail refused to violent domestic abusers and those considered at high risk of reoffending kept behind bars while they await trial.
The cabinet will also discuss expanding the use of electronic monitoring ankle bracelets.
“Today, on Mother’s Day, is a stark reminder that there are families grieving the loss of women who have been abducted under the most horrific circumstances,” Mr Park said.
