Red bench encourages Central Highlands community to band together against domestic violence

The Central Highlands Regional Council has unveiled a red bench at its Emerald Council Chambers forecourt to show its support for raising awareness around domestic and family violence.

Mayor Kerry Hayes said the bench is a symbolic reminder that domestic and family violence is very real in Central Highlands communities.

‘With the installation of the red bench, the council supports the Red Rose Foundation’s Red Bench Project and demonstrates intolerance to domestic and family violence,’ he said.

‘More importantly, the red bench is a reminder that people in our community are affected by domestic and family violence, and that support is available.’

Mayor Hayes said the council would be looking at installing more benches across the region. Council also encourages interested community organisations to sponsor a bench.

‘Together, as a community, we can make a difference and build a support network that says no to any form of domestic and family violence.’

Council and community support members unveiled the bench during a small ceremony on White Ribbon Day, 20 November 2020.

Red Rose Foundation

The Red Rose Foundation is a national not for profit charity which works to end domestic and family violence. It was established in response to the many victims who lose their lives each year in communities across the nation.

To provide a visual reminder of the devastating effects of Domestic and Family Violence in our communities they launched the Red Bench Project.

The presence of a Red Bench in a communal location aims to raise public awareness and provides an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible and act as a symbol of broader support.

Queensland Government Domestic Violence Campaign

Access to information and resources for people affected by domestic and family violence, as well as family, friends or neighbours.

White Ribbon Day

White Ribbon Day is held on the last Friday before 25 November every year in Australia. This is a time where communities come together to stand up, speak out and act, and say ‘no’ to gendered violence in Australia.

Domestic violence helplines

In an emergency call the police on Triple Zero (000)

DVConnect Womensline – 1800 811 811

DVConnect Mensline – 1800 600 636

1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732