Statement from the Berry Writers’ Festival in relation to Mr. Craig Silvey

The Berry Writers’ Festival is deeply distressed by the allegations against Mr. Craig Silvey, in light of his visit with us to local public schools last year. Our thoughts and concern at this time are with all survivors of child exploitation and their families. 

The safety of our children is our primary priority.  We want to reassure our community that a committee member and a representative of Mr. Silvey’s publisher were present with Mr. Silvey at the schools throughout the visit. We are personally engaging with the schools and our stakeholders involved with the event in relation to this matter.

We acknowledge this is an active police matter, and that Mr Silvey is entitled to procedural fairness and a presumption of innocence while it is before the courts.  If this matter has brought up any further concerns for you or another person in our community, the following resources are available:

Lifeline
13 11 14
24 hours a day, 7 days a week

13YARN
13 92 76
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
A culturally safe crisis support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

1800RESPECT
1800 737 732
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
For people impacted by sexual assault, domestic and family violence and abuse

Blue Knot Helpline and Redress Support Service
1300 657 380
9am-5pm, 7 days a week
For adults impacted by childhood trauma including child sexual abuse

Kids Helpline
1800 55 1800

24 hours a day, 7 days a week