Family and friends left shocked and shattered by the death of young Narrabri woman Alexandra Tapp have banded together to speak up and support victims of sexual abuse.

Their campaign is a testament to the strength, courage and ability of a country community to rally and turn a tragedy into a fight for positive change.

Alexandra’s sister Virginia Tapscott has set-up a support group, good friend Ebonnie Whan has started a podcast called Conversations for Ally, there’s been a charity auction to raise money for abuse prevention and the Bellata CWA has donated $500 to Our Watch, a national organisation tackling violence against women and children.

And that’s just the beginning.

“Alex was a much loved, funny and kind young woman, as well as an extremely talented equine vet. She had her whole life ahead of her,” said Alexandra’s mother Lynne Tapp.

Alexandra sadly died in June of a drug overdose at the age of 32.

Since Alexandra’s death, her sister Virginia has poured her heart and soul into establishing an online support group for survivors of sexual abuse and assault. She is determined to make a difference.

“As a victim of child sexual abuse myself I will spend the rest of my life working to promote social change which results in a culture where victims feel safe to report and the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions,” said Virginia.

Virginia said both she and Alexandra were abused by a person who has since died.

She understands sexual abuse can be a tough and confronting conversation to have, but it’s an incredibly important one.

“If we do not speak up, the crimes and their impacts become invisible in the community – we can’t fix what we cannot see.

“Law enforcement and judicial systems must better protect the vulnerable, but we can all make a difference by supporting victims who try to report these crimes.”

One in three Australian women has experienced physical or sexual violence, according to Our Watch.

Our Watch works to eliminate gender inequality, the root cause of violence against women, in places where we live, work and socialise.

Alexandra’s family has been overwhelmed by the community’s support so far and are sharing their story to help others impacted by trauma.

“It’s been such a troubling time but again and again people have shown us kindness we’ll never forget,” said Lynne Tapp.

“Statistics show that perpetrators of sexual assault and abuse are most commonly known to the victim.

“Quite often it’s the people you trust and would never imagine being capable of such horrendous acts.

“It needs to stop,” said Mrs Tapp.

The private support group can be accessed by emailing [email protected].

If you need someone to talk to, call:
• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
• Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
• For sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service call 1800 RESPECT 1800 737 732 for 24/7 phone and online services.

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