Students take a stand against domestic and family violence with annual walk

Livingstone Shire Council showed its support of St Brendan’s College when it held its annual walk Against Domestic Violence today, as part of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (DFVP Month).

Each May, Queensland marks Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (DFVP Month) to raise community awareness of domestic and family violence and to send a clear message that domestic and family violence in families and homes will not be tolerated.

Mayor Andy Ireland said the walk organised by St Brendan’s College symbolised a strong stance against the community scourge, making it clear that the abhorrent behaviour will not be tolerated within the Livingstone community.

“I commend St Brendan’s College, including the teachers, organisers and the students for bringing this issue out into the foreground so that our community can have important conversations about this growing issue,” Mayor Ireland said.

“These kinds of community initiatives are important to help change the attitudes and behaviours of those who contribute to this prevalent social problem.

“The impacts of domestic violence are felt in many ways throughout our society, with rates of domestic and family violence being higher in regional, rural, and remote areas. This is a huge cause for concern, and more importantly, a call to action for necessary steps to be taken to prevent this kind of behaviour continuing within our community.    

“I encourage residents to speak up if they believe they have witnessed domestic violence or know of someone who may be suffering from domestic and family violence. It’s only by working together, that we can ensure there is a cultural shift in attitudes towards this appalling issue.”

St Brendan’s College Assistant Principal – Identity, Mr Shane Peers, said the 850 plus student and staff contingent would walk in solidarity against domestic, family and sexual violence.

“As one of the largest collectives of men in Central Queensland, they are our sons, brothers and future husbands and fathers,” Mr Peers said.

“This is an important responsibility and cause the College continues to support. Teaching positive actions to assist in ending violence, we aim to ensure that our boys become strong advocates for healthy relationships.”

Portfolio holder of Healthy and Inclusive Community, Councillor Pat Eastwood said Council is absolutely committed to keeping our residents and wider community safe.

“A big part of ensuring that safety is ensuring our residents have the right information and know where to find help via DVConnect on 1800 811 811,” Cr Eastwood said.

If you have any questions about Family and Domestic Violence, please come and see our wonderful team at Council’s Community Centre or phone 4913 3840, or visit https://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/communitycentre