Annual Peaceful Walk

As May marks Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month across the country, it is an opportunity for everyone to play their part in raising awareness and putting an end to domestic and family violence.

Kym de Thierry, a Team Leader at Sandgate and Bracken Ridge Action Group (SANDBAG), shared how the community can come out and show support for this incredibly important cause.

“During May, we encourage people to wear purple or orange to show a commitment to creating an environment that respects everyone’s right to be safe,” Kym said. “We will be joining the Sandgate Queensland Police Service, Brisbane City Council and other local businesses and community members in the Annual Peaceful Walk and Candle-lighting Ceremony, as well as hosting the Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council Panel Event.”

The Peaceful Walk and candlelight vigil are held each year to acknowledge families and individuals in our communities impacted by domestic and family violence, and to honour those who have lost their lives as well as the families who have been left behind.

SANDBAG will also be hosting a free panel event the morning after the walk and vigil that will include Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Council members as well as survivor advocates.

“They will be sharing their personal experiences relevant to domestic and family violence as well as the warning signs of coercive behaviours,” Kym said. “This event is part of SANDBAG's Chai and Chat and morning tea will be provided.”

Also in conjunction with Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, Bracken Ridge Ward Councillor Sandy Landers will be joining SANDBAG to plant trees along the Keith Murray Bikeway at the annual Domestic Violence Tree Planting Ceremony.

“The event was initiated by community member Heather Oakes, one of the original volunteers at SANDBAG,” Councillor Landers said. “Each year we join SANDBAG to plant trees to represent the women and children in our community who have survived domestic and family violence.”

“Community members are encouraged to come out to show support and participate in all of these events,” Kym said. “Together we can say NO to domestic and family violence. Not now, not ever, not anywhere!”

For more information on these events, contact kym@sandbag.org.au

Annual Peaceful Walk & Candle Lighting Ceremony,
Wednesday, 22 May, 3:30pm
Einbunpin Lagoon Park, Sandgate

Panel Event
Thursday, 23 May, 9:30-11:30 am
SANDBAG, 153 Rainbow Street, Sandgate

Tree Planting Ceremony
Wednesday, 29 May, 10-11 am
Keith Murray Bikeway, Bald Hills (behind Kyeema Crescent)