On Tuesday, May 27, the Gala Cinema in Warrawong became a space for honesty, recognition, and courage.
The screening of the confronting and courageous documentary Such a Resounding Silence saw more than 100 people turn out to raise awareness and support victims of incest.
Co-directed by acclaimed French actress Emmanuelle Béart and filmmaker Anastasia Mikova, the film was presented by the Illawarra Women’s Health Centre’s project, the Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre in partnership with the CorriLee Foundation and with the support of Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson.
Béart, herself a survivor, uses her story and the voices of others to illuminate the devastating and often hidden reality of intrafamilial childhood sexual abuse.
The film rips through the cultural silence that has long protected perpetrators and isolated victims.
Following the film, a powerful panel discussion explored themes including how to speak out if you are a victim of incest, what support is available and how to heal.
Journalist Antoinette Lattouf led a conversation with some of Australia’s most respected voices in the fight against sexual violence: Jess Hill, investigative journalist; Melissa Holmes, CEO of Stepping Out; Dr Karen Williams, Head of Programs, Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre; and Malika Reese, Wollongong’s Citizen of the Year 2025 and a survivor who made legal history.
Here are some key insights from the evening.
Healing is Possible
Dr Karen Williams explained how many survivors develop complex PTSD or psychosocial disabilities. She said healing is not about “getting over it” but accessing trauma-informed, specialised care with early intervention and consistent, respectful support being essential.
Believe Them
Melissa Holmes said Survivors often say that not being believed when they first disclosed can be more damaging than the abuse itself.
She said that whether you’re a professional or a personal confidant, your response matters deeply and advised that responding with belief, empathy, and without judgment was critical.
There may be no red flag
When asked what signs people should look out for if they suspect someone may be a victim of incest, Dr Williams explained that while sexualised behaviour in children can be a major red flag, survivors may also show no signs at all or even seek affection from their abuser.
She said people should not rely on stereotypes of victim behaviour and instead listen carefully and be informed.
Healing takes all forms
Malika Reese reminded the audience that healing is not just about talking and explained that movement, art, music, yoga, and other embodied practices can all help survivors reconnect with themselves.
Challenge the Silence
Jess Hill explained that while conversations about incest are uncomfortable, they are necessary. She said avoiding the topic of child sexual abuse allows it to persist in silence.
She added that we need to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable” and keep centring survivors’ voices to break the stigma and foster change.
The Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre in Shellharbour is a place for women to heal and rebuild their lives if they have or are experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence.
Our range of services supports women in living secure and independent lives.You can contact our team by calling 4243 9800.
