23/10/2026
Wangaratta turning orange in support of Helen Haines MP speaks to something we love deeply about our regional communities: the way people show up for one another.
Since the devastating incident earlier this week, we have been thinking of Helen and her family, quietly hoping for good news and struggling to find the right words.
We have taken comfort in her husband Phil’s words that, at this stage, her heart and mind are in good shape. His description of Helen’s compassion and sharp intellect speaks to the qualities that make her such a valued champion for regional Australia.
Helen put her hand up to represent a community she loves. In doing so, she has become a champion for regional Australia whose contribution reaches well beyond the boundaries of Indi.
As an independent member of Parliament, she has shown what determination, care and a deep understanding of regional life can achieve. She has helped bring the needs and ambitions of our communities into the national conversation, and her work has made a meaningful difference.
It is difficult to reconcile that commitment with the devastating harm she has suffered while going about an ordinary day in her hometown. Everyone who steps forward to serve their community should be able to do so safely.
At Regional Capitals Australia, we join the people of Wangaratta and communities across the country in sending Helen, Phil, their family and her team our care and support.
Helen, thank you for all you have given to the regional communities we share and love. We are thinking of you and standing with you.
AUSTRALIA-WIDE CANDLELIGHT VIGIL FOR HELEN
The only response to violence is peace.
FRIDAY 23 OCTOBER 2026 | 8 PM AEDT
Please join us to show unconditional support for Helen Haines and peace.
On Friday evening, light a candle and stand quietly for fifteen minutes.
Outside your front door, on your verandah, in your garden or beside a window.
Wherever you are, you can be a part of this simple gesture of compassion.
No speeches. No politics. No anger.
Only silence, compassion and hope.
LIGHT YOUR CANDLE AT THE FOLLOWING TIME:
VIC, NSW, ACT, TAS: 8:00 pm AEDT
QLD: 7:00 pm AEST
SA: 7:30 pm ACDT
NT: 6:30 pm ACST
WA: 5:00 pm AWST
Across our vast country, let us stand together for Helen, her family and her recovery.
United not by politics, but by our shared humanity.
