Hundreds spent Mother’s Day marching in memory of Molly Ticehurst, a young mother whose life was allegedly taken by her former partner.
A large crowd gathered at Forbes in mid-west New South Wales on Sunday to honor the local childcare worker, 28, who was allegedly murdered in her home on April 22 by her former partner, 39-year-old Daniel Billings.
Billings was on bail for charges including rape, stalking and intimidation when Ms Ticehurst’s alleged murder took place.
Locals walked around Lake Forbes on Sunday wearing white shirts with Mrs. Ticehurst’s face and the words “Her name is Molly.”
The march took place on a day when the NSW government confirmed it will consider introducing new laws aimed at protecting women from domestic violence.
Hundreds gathered in Forbes on Mother’s Day to walk for Molly Ticehurst (pictured), who was reportedly murdered on April 22
Community members walked around Lake Forbes (pictured) wearing shirts with Mrs Ticehurst’s face and the words: ‘Her name is Molly’
Some walkers, including Mrs Ticehurst’s aunt and uncle – Debbie and Fred Brown, carried signs for the late childcare worker.
“It’s been hard the last few weeks, but it’s good to see so much support in the city and people supporting each other,” Brown said. ABC.
“It’s hard, but you know, it’s good to see things starting to change, which is one of the best things.”
The walk was organized by Forbes local Cassandra Tyack.
“So many people didn’t know Molly, but she touched everyone’s hearts with what happened,” she told Nine News.
Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller tearfully described Mrs. Ticehurst’s legacy in the small town.
Not a day goes by that she doesn’t think of Mrs. Ticehurst’s loved ones.
The death of Ms Ticehurst (pictured) has prompted the State Cabinet to consider tougher bail laws for violent domestic violence
“Molly Ticehurst’s beautiful smile gives you an insight into the strong and sweet young woman she was,” Cr Miller said.
“We pay tribute to you, Molly, a dedicated educator and an even more devoted mother.
“It is 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 has made everything an adventure for her family and of course all her friends, we are heartbroken.’
Sunday also marked a major step for better laws to protect women, when NSW Health Minister Ryan Park announced the government would consider urgent reforms.
The walk (pictured) was attended by Ms Ticehurst’s relatives, as Forbes Mayor Phyllis Miller tearfully described the late childcare worker’s legacy in the small town.
“We are committed to making sure we keep women safe,” Parksaid said.
“That’s our only focus right now, when far too many women are being murdered by someone who has to care for them.”
The state Cabinet will consider reforms on Monday that could see bail denied to violent domestic abusers and those at high risk of reoffending kept behind bars pending trial.
The government will also discuss expanding the use of electronic monitoring ankle bracelets.
“Today, on Mother’s Day, is a stark reminder that there are families today who mourn the loss of women kidnapped in the most horrific circumstances,” Mr Park added.