This Mother’s Day, we pay tribute to Rachel McKenna — a big sister, a beloved daughter, a doting aunty, and a dear friend to many. Rachel was also a proud and passionate member of the Moonee Valley Football Club. But above all, she was a devoted mother to her beautiful 8-year-old son, Leo.

Rachel was generous, vibrant, and loyal. She lived with warmth and joy, always looking forward to new adventures with her precious boy. Her energy and love touched everyone around her.

Tragically, Rachel’s life was cut short on 31 January, 2025 by a senseless act of family violence — an unimaginable and unnecessary loss that has left a deep hole in the hearts of her family, friends, and the wider community. She is deeply missed.

In Rachel’s honour, all funds raised from our Mother’s Day Raffle will be donated to GenWest, a vital organisation supporting victim-survivors of family violence, including those in the Moonee Valley area.

We ask you to consider supporting this important cause as we remember Rachel and stand united against family violence. There are some wonderful prizes on offer, including gift hampers, Beauty on Rose and Endota Spa vouchers and Red Edge Wines.

Rachel was the 7th woman to lose her life to violence in January 2025. By 25 April, another 15 women had been taken too soon. All forms of violence including violence against women and children is never acceptable — it must end.

If you wish to make a donation directly to GenWest, please use the link below and include “MVFC” as your reference:

https://www.givenow.com.au/genwest

We all have a role to play in preventing family violence. Together, we can make a difference — by raising awareness, supporting local services, educating our children about respectful relationships, learning the warning signs of abuse, and speaking up when we see it.

If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to one of the following organisations:

- GenWest – www.genwest.org.au
- 1800 Respect – www.1800respect.org.au
- The Orange Door (Broadmeadows or Sunshine) – www.orangedoor.vic.gov.au

With love and in remembrance,

Moonee Valley Football Club