The LGAQ team outside Local Government House in 2020 before heading off on its Red Bench Relay
Following last year’s successful DFV awareness events in councils right across Queensland, the LGAQ is again calling on councils to get involved in the Red Bench Relay by hosting a walk against violence from 25 November to 10 December.
During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence — an international campaign launched in 1991 — councils are encouraged to host a short walk of 1-5km, beginning from their community’s red bench and circling back.
LGAQ Domestic and Family Violence Project Officer Jim Boden said the Red Bench Relay is an excellent way to show leadership in your community.
“Last year was an excellent example of what can be achieved by showing a united front,” Jim said.
“The Red Bench Relay is an excellent way to garner greater awareness for the issue of domestic and family violence and complements a host of other activities in the space to raise awareness.”
The LGAQ has prepared the social media graphics, email headers and community flyers to help you arrange your event, which can be downloaded here.
The Red Bench Project was launched by the Red Rose Foundation in 2019, installing red benches throughout the community as permanent reminders that domestic violence occurs within our communities, and that we have the power to change the ending.
The LGAQ, with support from the Red Rose Foundation, launched the Red Bench Relay in November 2020, marking the beginning of an annual domestic violence education program.
The LGAQ will be doing its part by hosting a walk against violence event and breakfast for staff and special guests, with a round trip walk from the red bench outside Local Government House.