Stars of the Australian comedy scene have joined the broader community in reacting with shock and anger today, following the devastating news that up-and-coming stand up star Eurydice Dixon has been found dead in a Carlton, Melbourne park. A 19-year-old male has since been charged with one count each of rape and murder.
With many in Melbourne and around Australia already deeply distressed by the news a woman had lost her life, her identification by police has brought the tragedy even closer to home for many in the entertainment industry.
Comedian Julia Morris tweeted, ‘I am absolutely shattered to hear of the despicable death of Eurydice Dixon. Our comedy community is like a family & this news is beyond heart breaking. My deepest condolences go to her family and friends. An important and funny voice has been extinguished. Vale Eurydice Dixon Jx
Meshel Laurie wrote that the tragedy was a reminder of the dangers faced by many women.
‘When I was a 22 year old comedian, I constantly walked home alone from gigs in the middle of the night because I couldn’t afford tram fare, let alone taxis,’ she tweeted. ‘Should we allow murderous rapists and poverty to ensure we’re locked inside for our entire lives?
‘Those unpaid gigs gave me the skills and the career I have now, but the poverty and the inherent danger that brings into women’s lives were an unavoidable part of it.’
The accused is due to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday.
He reportedly presented at a local police station not long after security footage was released which showed a suspect in the case.
This article originally appeared on New Idea.