On the town entrance sign at Donald, the sign reads ‘the heart of Victoria’.

That heart was broken last week after news broke of the alleged murder of 13-year-old Layla Jeffery.

With the case now before the children’s court, the media is restricted in what it can and can’t report, so this editorial will focus on the effect that Layla’s death has had on the Buloke Shire town, and wider region. 

Visiting Donald on Friday for the Victoria Police media conference, I was immediately struck by the effect Layla’s death was having on people – residents, emergency services’ personnel, staff at local businesses.

There were lots of hushed voices. Furrowed brows. And bewilderment at how this could happen in a small country town like Donald?

It is hard to find the right words to say, or write, in circumstances like this. Even for a writer, this situation is unexplainable.

As a journalist who has covered several crime stories, but also a mother and a human being, this is one that will continue to shock me.

I cannot imagine what Layla’s loved ones are going through.

In a week where Layla should have been enjoying her school holidays, her life has been cut cruelly short.

There is something about the death of a child or teenager that hits people differently.

The ripple-effect seems to spread a little further, and even if you don’t know the person or family personally, it can knock the wind out of you.

Donald is typically like any small town in the Wimmera, and while everyone is in a state of shock and dealing with the grief process in their own way, tragedies can bring out the best in a community.

The way the town has rallied around Layla’s family, offering support, love and condolences, shows just how much heart Donald has. The outpouring of love and respect has been evident – starting with wearing pink for Layla at the sporting events on Saturday, carried through to the memorial set up at Bullock’s Head viewing platform and then at the vigil to honour Layla.

While there are no words that will bring Layla back or take away the pain for her family, showing support and kindness for everyone in the community is heartening and may just offer Layla’s loved ones some comfort at this difficult time.

And spare a thought for ‘the helpers’ – Victoria Police, emergency services personnel, SES volunteers, and everyone involved in the search and response. Thank you.

Donald has been deeply affected by this tragedy – it has taken away some of the town’s innocence and will no doubt have a lasting impact.

But as dark as the days may seem, there are services available to help those in this time of need.

To the people of Donald – particularly those young people affected – please reach out for help and support, and know the region as a whole is wrapping their arms around you and your big heart at this time.

• Support is available to anyone affected: Lifeline – 13 11 14, www.lifeline.org.au; Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800, www.kidshelpline.com.au; Headspace – 1800 650 890, www.headspace.org.au; Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636, www.beyondblue.org.au; and Respect Victoria – 1800RESPECT, www.respectvictoria.vic.gov.au.

 

The entire July 15, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!