Vicki Cleary became a powerful symbol in Australia’s campaign to stop violence against women after she was murdered by her former boyfriend outside her place of work in Coburg in 1987 at just 25 years of age. Her murder and the manslaughter verdict handed down under the old provocation law – which Phil Cleary described as ‘reducing all women to chattels’ – sparked widespread outrage and helped drive public debate about violence against women and the treatment of victims in the justice system. Since then, Vicki’s story has remained central to advocacy work focused on gender equality, respect and the prevention of male violence against women.
The event combines remembrance with education, and brings together sporting clubs, victim survivors, and campaigners, in a public stand against violence toward women. It will begin with discussion, words of remembrance and a performance by Rebecca Barnard of a song written by Phil in honour of Vicki.
The Coburg Football Club is committed to eradicating family violence and all forms violence and coercion against women. Through its partnership with the VICKI CLEARY DAY campaign Coburg FC will continue to promote gender equity throughout the football and broader community. The Coburg vs Carlton match will begin with a moment of silence at 12.45 pm . We look forward to having you standing in solidarity with us on this profoundly important day.
