November 5, 2024
A thunderstorm in Kingaroy last Thursday night derailed plans for the annual Reclaim The Night event, organised every year to coincide with Sexual Violence Awareness Month.
Usually participants gather in the Town Hall Forecourt before marching around the CBD led by drummers from St Mary’s Catholic College.
But this year, everyone – and their banners – shifted into the Town Hall Reception Room where they chatted, shared information, listened to live music and enjoyed a sausage sizzle organised by local police.
“Reclaim The Night” marches were revived in Kingaroy several years ago as a way to raise awareness about sexual violence.
One in five women aged over 15 have experienced sexual violence but men and boys are also often victims.
In the South Burnett, Laurel Place in Murgon can provide help, counselling and advice for women, children and teenagers (including boys up to 18 years) who have experienced sexual assault, ph (07) 4168-2079.
Centacare Family and Relationship Services in Kingaroy also offers sexual assault counselling for adults, ph (07) 4162-5439.
The national sexual violence helpline can also be contacted 24/7 on 1800 Respect (1800-737-732).
