Murrindindi says no to family violence

THE Murrindindi Walk for Respect was held during 16 Days of Activism in conjunction with Rotary’s ‘Say No to Family Violence’ message.

The event was held in Rotary Park on Friday, November 28, in sunny and warm conditions, drawing people from all parts of the shire. Many wore purple t-shirts, available for purchase at the event, supporting the message.

There were various stalls, with organisations providing information and advice on a variety of topics.

Mayor Damien Gallagher emceed the event. He said, “Your presence here today means something. It shows that in Murrindindi, we do not turn away from difficult issues. We face them together.”

He added, “Today we walk with purpose. We walk to stand against domestic and family violence. We walk for equality, for safety, and for the simple but powerful idea that respect must underpin every relationship, every home, every club, every workplace, and every community. This is not easy work, but real change rarely is.

It takes time, compassion, and a community willing to stand side by side, and that is exactly what we’re doing today.
“Respect is more than just a slogan.

It’s a way we choose to live every day. It looks like building healthy, equal relationships, practicing enthusiastic consent, ensuring fairness in our workplaces, clubs and homes, speaking up when something isn’t right, and role modelling the behaviours we want our kids to grow up with.

Everyone, absolutely everyone…

Image: Chris Lynch and Samuel Fawke, both from Alexandra Fire Brigade, Chris di Ciero from Benalla Police, Stephen Keating from CFA District 12, and Steve Lynch.