The Redlands Coast community is being invited to stand in solidarity with victims of domestic and family violence at a candle lighting vigil in Cleveland next month.
The annual Redlands Coast Candle Lighting Vigil will be held at Raby Bay Harbour Park on Wednesday, May 6, from 5.30pm, marking the beginning of Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month.
Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell said the ceremony would again align with vigils held across the state and provide an important opportunity for reflection and support.
“The candle lighting vigil is a truly respectful opportunity for our community to come together and express support for those who have been impacted by domestic and family violence,” the Mayor said.
“It’s also an opportunity to send a message to the wider community that domestic and family violence should not be tolerated in our society.
“Holding a candle is a way of remembering those who have lost their lives while also acknowledging the victim survivors of these terrible crimes.
“The more we support these events, the greater the attention and awareness directed towards this issue.
“It is important that as a community we stand against violent behaviour and continue to encourage values of respect, kindness and decency in all aspects of life.”
Mayor Mitchell said while awareness had grown, there was still significant progress to be made, with recent Australian Bureau of Statistics data showing domestic and family violence-related offences were increasing.
“Rising statistics demonstrate why we need to continue bringing awareness to the impacts of DFV, including through avenues such as the candle lighting vigil,” she said.
“We need to call it out clearly and collectively. We need to lead by example so we can work towards a future where everyone is respected, and where individuals and families feel safe.
“I invite all Redlanders to join the vigil and stand in solidarity with the people in our community who have been impacted.”
The vigil is presented by Redland City Council in partnership with The Centre for Women & Co and the Red Rose Foundation.
An optional ‘Walk the Talk’ march will be held prior to the ceremony, with participants gathering at Kyling Corner, at the intersection of Waterloo and Middle streets, Cleveland, from 4.45pm before walking together to the vigil site.
The walk is hosted by Zonta Club of Wynnum Redland and Soroptimist International Bayside.
As part of DFV Prevention Month, council has also partnered with Lifeline to deliver a free DV-alert workshop in Capalaba on Thursday, May 14.
The session, to be held at Redland Community Centre from 9.30am to 11.30am, will focus on recognising the signs of domestic and family violence, responding safely and referring people to support services. Bookings are essential.
Residents seeking help are reminded confidential support is available through DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811 and DVConnect Mensline on 1800 600 636.
In life-threatening situations, people should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
More information on the vigil is available via Redland City Council’s website.
