May 29, 2020
South Burnett Regional Council will be placing more red benches around the region in a bid to raise community awareness about the impact of domestic and family violence.
Five of the distinctive benches are already in place: Kingaroy (Haly Street near Wayne’s World); Nanango (Henry Street near Energy Centre); Wondai (Mackenzie Street); Murgon (Lamb Street near chemist); and Proston (Rodney Street near IGA).
Benches at Blackbutt and Kumbia will be installed this week, coinciding with Domestic Violence Prevention Month.
Seven are yet to be installed, with planned locations at Kingaroy, Benarkin, Tingoora, Hivesville, Mondure, Durong and Wooroolin.
“The aim of Domestic Violence Prevention Month is to provide an opportunity for all of us to send a message that violence will not be tolerated, to speak out and empower people to work together towards prevention,” Mayor Brett Otto said.
“The Red Bench project is the brainchild of the not-for-profit group Red Rose Foundation and is used as a visual reminder of the impact of domestic and family violence within our community and a commitment to ‘change the ending’ for survivors.
“These benches are an important prompt for people to start an uncomfortable conversation that could literally save lives.
“The distinctive red benches are not only a permanent visual reminder to help raise community awareness against domestic and family violence, but also provide a place of support for those in need.”
- Related article: Red Benches To Raise Awareness
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If you are worried about friends or neighbours and possible DV, what should you do?
If you suspect that a friend or neighbour is the victim of domestic violence, then the most important thing they need is support. Your support may provide them with the encouragement to seek help and ensure their safety.
Where to get help:
If you are in immediate danger, phone the police on Triple Zero (000).
For help and advice, call:
- DVConnect Womensline – 1800-811-811 (24/7)
- DVConnect Mensline – 1800-600-636 (9:00am to midnight daily)
- Sexual Assault Helpline – 1800-010-120 (7:30am to 11:30pm daily)
- Elder Abuse Helpline – 1300-651-192 (9:00am to 5:00pm weekdays)
