In a stark and ongoing reminder that domestic and family violence is a scourge in our community, Sunshine Coast Council has installed four bright red benches..
The Red Bench project is the brainchild of not-for-profit charity the Red Rose Foundation, which started the campaign in the hope the benches will raise public awareness and remind people of the unacceptable presence of domestic and family violence in communities.
Sunshine Coast Council Mayor Mark Jamieson said council had installed red benches at Nambour, Alexandra Headland, Caloundra and Maleny.
“Each bench delivers a simple message on a plaque (which is) ‘Change the ending: let’s stop domestic violence,’” Mayor Jamieson said.
“I sincerely hope these benches not only provide comfort for many passers-by, but also spark questions, conversations and reflection to help us to eradicate the occurrence of domestic and family violence.
“There is no room for domestic and family violence in our society.
“It has to stop and every single one of us can take responsibility for our own actions and lead by example.”
Red Rose Foundation Chief Executive Betty Taylor said she was pleased to see Sunshine Coast Council join other local government areas in displaying the red benches.
“Our goal is for every single local government in Australia to have a red bench in their community,” Ms Taylor said.
“Everyone in the community has a responsibility to play a role in raising awareness against domestic and family violence.
“We truly hope these benches make a difference to others, as one death from domestic and family violence is one too many.”
Follow Sunshine Coast News on Facebook.
Sunshine Coast Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said he hoped the Red Bench project inspired others within the community to create their own red benches to increase the awareness of domestic and family violence.
“Coolum is a fine example of paving the way, with the Coolum Red Bench an initiative between local artists Jacque Sanderson and John Fuller, plus local solicitor Ray Barber,” Cr Law said.
“It’s terrific when the community comes together for such an important cause.
“Domestic and family violence is a key focus area in our Sunshine Coast Community Strategy 2019-2041, which council is committed to addressing through partnership, collaboration, advocacy and direct action.”
Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our free daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email. See SUBSCRIBE at the top of this article.
Ms Sanderson said she was humbled to work on the Coolum community-led project.
“The seats are intentionally positioned towards the public to provide aesthetic amenity to the community,” Ms Sanderson said.
“This is art for all who walk in the vicinity, not just the patron.
“It’s for the public to embrace as a place for rest, meeting or exchange,” Ms Sanderson said.
For more information about the Red Bench project visit the Red Rose Foundation and for information about domestic and family violence visit council’s website.
If you suspect that someone you know is being abused, there are three ways that you can help, depending on the situation.
- Talk to the victim
- Provide resources and help them take action
- In an emergency, call triple zero (000).
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for advice or support. This service is open 24 hours and provides confidential advice. In an emergency, call the Police on 000. All incidents of violence should be reported to the Police.
Visit the Queensland Government for more information about what you can do about domestic and family violence and to search for support services in your local area.
