"YOU ARE NOT ALONE” Burdekin marches against domestic violence

Photo Credit: Natalie Saroglia

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Over 150 Burdekinites marched through Plantation Park on May 31^st in solidarity with victim-survivors of domestic and family violence.

The DV Prevention Walk brought local families, community groups, councillors, and service providers to Ayr’s Plantation Park before a purple-and-orange convoy set off along the Bruce Highway, up to Kirlie Road, and back to the park.

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Marchers held high signs calling for an end to violence, before signing a banner pledging their commitment to safer families and communities.

Burdekin Community Association CEO Debra Cochran, emcee of the event, told the crowd before the march that preventing domestic and family violence was a responsibility shared by the entire community.

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“Violence and abuse in any relationship is unacceptable. Preventing it requires all of us to step up, call out disrespect and at times, have tough conversations with our friends and loved ones,” Ms Cochran said.

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“Every step you take today is a step toward a culture where everyone feels safe, equal and respected. Let’s walk with purpose and carry the energy of today forward into what we say and do every day.  

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“We say NO to violence.”

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort and Officer in Charge of the Ayr Police Station Senior Sergeant Lisa Shields also addressed attendees on the morning.

Police and DFV Service providers manned information stalls, with a free barbecue breakfast provided by the Network and free sweets courtesy of Sweetsville.

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SweetFM also brought music, rock painting, and badge making activities to the park.

Ms Cochran described the event as “very successful and impactful.”

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“We fulfilled the main purpose of the event, which was to raise awareness about domestic and family violence within the community while creating a visible message of support for victim-survivors,” she said.

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“It was an opportunity for community members to come together in solidarity and demonstrate a shared commitment to promoting safety, respect, and healthy relationships within the Burdekin community.

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“We hope the event encourages ongoing conversation.”

Domestic and family violence remains a significant issue across Australia and Queensland.

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According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in four Australian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence from an intimate partner since the age of 15.

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In Queensland, there were 27,857 domestic and family violence protection orders initiated in 2023–24, according to latest Queensland Courts data.

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Ms Cochran said the walk reinforced the importance of community support for victim-survivors of one of the State’s most pressing social issues.

“We want victim-survivors to know they are not alone and that there are people and services within the community that care and are available to support them,” she said.

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