Bega is preparing for a special evening this November with Reclaim the Night, a community event that invites locals to gather, reflect, and take up space in Littleton Gardens on Friday, 21 November. Take Back the Night, the original movement that began in the 1970s as a response to the fear and harassment women experienced while walking alone at night, continues today as a chance for communities to come together, stand in solidarity, and shine a light on the impact of gender based violence.
This year, the Bega Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Committee is bringing the event to life with a relaxed, welcoming afternoon of speakers, poetry, music, and open mic. The Rotary BBQ and coffee van will keep attendee’s going, and the main focus is simple but powerful: to be seen in public spaces safely, and to support one another.
For Vesna Andric, Staying Home Leaving Violence Program Manager, and committee member of Bega DV&SA, the event is about more than just visibility. “The committee comes together for education, collaboration, and support,” she says. “Reclaim the Night is a way to connect our community, raise awareness, and improve how we respond to people in need. It’s about giving people space to reflect, to be heard, and to feel supported.”
The impact of violence on the local community is something Vesna and the committee see every day- from homelessness and health complications to emotional and psychological pain. “These events are part of how we respond collectively,” Vesna says. “We would love to see more openness and confidence with calling out issues as they arise, growing our community, with all its diverse families and people to have a strong culture around safety and connecting with one another to maintain this.”
Community involvement is a big part of the evening and the wider campaign. Attending events like Reclaim the Night, having conversations with those in need, sharing information, or even joining the committee are all meaningful ways to contribute. Vesna also points out the role of advocacy and voting in creating change: supporting leaders who prioritise addressing gender-based violence is another way the community can make a difference.
The hope, she says, is that campaigns like this will help break the stigma around talking about violence toward women and girls, while fostering a culture of openness and safety. “Coming together, respecting the diverse experiences of everyone in our community, helps us all grow stronger and more connected,” Vesna explains. “It’s in these moments of solidarity that real change starts.”
Reclaim the Night in Bega is open to everyone, offering a safe, supportive space to reflect, celebrate resilience, and take a stand for a safer community.
The Bega Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Committee includes Gabe from NSW Health, Carrie from Campbell Page, Donna from Southern Women’s Group, Jade from Sapphire Neighbourhood Services, Karen from Women’s Resource Centre, and Vesna from Staying Home Leaving Violence.
For more information, contact Bega Women’s Resource Centre.