But few knew about the violent relationship that hovered over her.

Speaking at the 2014 WRISC Family Violence Support annual general meeting on Wednesday night, Sarah’s mother Noelle Dickson shared with audiences the emotional impact of violence on women and children in the hope it helps others stand up and say no to violence.

“Violence is not just about broken bones, it’s the emotional impact as well,” she said.

Packing up her daughter’s belongings earlier this year, Ms Dickson said she came across a diary which gave personal insights into Sarah’s struggle with a violent relationship with an ex-boyfriend.

She read an extract from the diary to audiences at Wednesday night’s meeting at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka to help portray the emotional effects of violence on women and children.

“I was amazed at what she has written, her words are very strong,” she said. 

“She was so creative and loved writing.

“It said exactly how she felt, I found it interesting to listen to her. She gave him lots of chances and he gave her none.” 

Ms Dickson said her aim was simply to help empower women to know that they could stand up and say no, knowing there would be support.

“It’s important for people to speak up,” she said. “If I can help someone to speak up it has to be a good thing.” 

Cafferkey, 22, was murdered on November 10 last year following a violent altercation with 46-year-old Steven James Hunter, whose parole had ended 10 days earlier.

Ms Dickson said she remained in contact with a Ballarat family who went through a similar incident the same year.

“That’s a big help because they’re the only ones who know what you’re going through,” she said.

If you have experienced or are experiencing violence or abuse, and are in need of assistance call WRISC Family Violence Support on 5333 3666.

alicia.thomas@fairfaxmedia.com.au