Moira Shire Council statement on the tragic death in Cobram

Published on 26 April 2024

Moira Shire Council and the Panel of Administrators extends our deepest condolences to all those affected by the tragic death of Emma Bates in Cobram on Tuesday. We recognise that family and gender-based violence has a profound impact on individuals and communities and it is imperative that all women feel safe and supported.

John Tanner AM, Chair of Administrators at Moira Shire Council, stated, "Every instance of gender-based violence is one too many. All women deserve to feel safe in their homes and in their communities."

"Our entire community shares in the grief caused by this tragedy, and our thoughts remain with those affected," Tanner continued.

We want to remind our community members that there are resources available to support those experiencing gender-based violence. Services such as 1800RESPECT, The Orange Door Shepparton, The Orange Door Wangaratta, and Safe Steps are here to provide assistance and further details will be on our website and social media.

Additionally, community members can visit the Cobram Community House for further information. It is important for people that need support to reach out. We live in a supportive community and these services are here to assist.

“Tragic events such as this, remind us that our community is not immune to what is an Australia wide issue, and as a Council we need to continue to work with other agencies and levels of government to ensure that there are appropriate levels of interventions and programs targeted at reducing family violence.”

“In the coming days will be reaching out to Federal and State Government and to our local community organisations to discuss these complex matters.