URGENT UPDATE: After an extraordinary 46 years of dedicated service, Yvonne Wilson, the esteemed CEO of Linking Communities Network (LCN), has officially retired, leaving behind a powerful legacy of advocacy for the vulnerable in Griffith and beyond. Her retirement comes just days before a significant community memorial vigil on November 28, 2025, honoring victims of domestic and family violence.
Wilson’s career began in humble beginnings, transitioning from nursing to social work after she answered a call for support at the nascent Griffith Women’s Refuge in 1978. Over the decades, she has transformed the organization into a critical provider of services across the region, now employing 63 staff and extending its reach to areas including Tumbarumba, Tumut, and Wagga.
Reflecting on her journey, Wilson shared the harsh realities of her work, stating, “The job of the law is to protect anyone living in a violent relationship, male or female.” She emphasized the importance of respecting the choices of those she has supported, despite the complexities involved. “Essentially and ultimately, you can’t make decisions for people… we see many people make the decision to go back to their partners, and we have to respect that decision.”
Despite the challenges, including threats to staff safety, Wilson has witnessed progress in community support for victims of domestic violence. “Things are better than when I first started,” she noted, highlighting advancements in legal protections and community awareness. Yet, she remains deeply concerned about the ongoing homelessness crisis affecting young people in 2025, asserting, “Accommodation isn’t available and they can’t afford huge rents.”
Wilson’s contributions have not gone unnoticed; she was honored with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her commitment to social justice. “It was an honor I am hugely grateful for, and one I accepted on behalf of every woman I’ve supported,” she commented.
As she steps down, Wilson leaves a significant mark with the ongoing construction of a new facility named ‘Yvonne’s Place’, designed to expand support for women and children fleeing violence. “It can’t come soon enough,” she stated, underscoring the pressing need for such resources.
Kirrilly Salvestro, former deputy chief executive, has taken the helm as CEO, ensuring the continuity of LCN’s vital mission. The upcoming vigil on November 28, part of the UN 16 Days Of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, will take place at Kooyoo Street Mall from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, further emphasizing the community’s commitment to addressing these pressing issues.
While Wilson has retired from her formal role, she is not stepping away from advocacy. She plans to remain active in the community through her involvement with the University of the Third Age and the Griffith Domestic Violence Committee. “When you retire, you have to have a plan – I’m not going to stay at home and vegetate,” she affirmed, eager to continue making a difference.
As Griffith prepares to honor the lives lost to violence, Wilson’s legacy of compassion and advocacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations to continue the fight for those in need.
