Centacare and Sunshine Coast Council have once again brought the community together in a powerful show of support for victim survivors of domestic and family violence. More than 300 people gathered in Maroochydore on 6 May for the annual march and candlelight vigil, marking the beginning of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
Under this year’s theme, ‘Every Life Matters. Together we can end Domestic and Family Violence,’ the event called on the community to stand united against violence and work towards safer futures for women and children.
Last year, Centacare provided domestic and family violence support services to more than 7,000 women on the Sunshine Coast. Services included risk assessment and safety planning, court support, counselling and group education and support.
Centacare Sunshine Coast Area Manager Adam Beck said domestic and family violence was a widespread issue impacting individuals and families across Queensland and Australia.
“It’s not just a private matter that happens behind closed doors – its effects reverberate through entire communities,” said Mr Beck.
“And it’s important to remember that it doesn’t have to be physical abuse to be considered DFV. Coercive and controlling behaviours are never okay, and everyone has a right to feel safe and experience positive and healthy relationships.
“Whether we’re checking our own behaviours, starting open conversations with our friends and family, or supporting someone experiencing family and domestic violence, we can all play a part in making a difference.”
Centacare General Manager Teena Ingram leads the march
The community gathered to hear victim survivors share their stories
Victim survivor Delaney Starling shares her story
Centacare Area Manager Adam Beck addresses the crowd
The community is invited to take a tealight in honor of those who have lost their lives
Tealights candles are placed upon the shoes of women and children who have lost their lives
We can all play our part
On average, one woman is killed every nine days by a current or former partner and women are three times more likely to experience violence at the hands of someone they know.
Sunshine Coast Lightning DFV prevention ambassador Mahalia Cassidy said violence was never okay and should never be tolerated.
“Our Sunshine Coast Lightning team and I are proud to be taking a stand against domestic and family violence stand with the victim survivors against all forms of abuse,” Ms Cassidy said.
DV Safe Phone, a non-profit organisation that collects, repurposes and gifts mobile phones to people experiencing domestic violence attended the event and encouraged people to donate any spare or unused mobile phones. These safe phones can provide a vital lifeline to call for help when it is needed most.
Centacare and the Archdiocese of Brisbane is a proud participant in Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month each May and remains steadfast in its commitment to raising awareness, advocating for victims, and empowering the community to stand up against violence and controlling behaviour.
Ways to give
When a woman escapes a coercive or violent relationship the healing and recovery phase are critical. Your tax-deductible gift will fund a safety plan, caseworker support and the essential things that make a new life feel livable. Give now.
Resources and contacts
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing (or is at risk of experiencing) domestic and family violence, contact your local Centacare Service.
In an emergency, call Triple Zero, 000.
If there is no immediate emergency, you can report domestic and family violence to the police by phoning Policelink on 131 444 or make a non-urgent report by submitting an online form.
You can also call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT for advice and support. This service is open 24 hours and provides confidential advice via phone or webchat.