Moves to put DV on bench

TOWNSVILLE City Council is aiming to become a white ribbon accredited workplace, one that takes active steps to stop violence against women.

Yesterday they took a step toward that goal, marking the first of 16 days of activism against DV by taking part in the ‘red bench relay’.

Councillors joined with senior police, politicians, tourism bosses and military personnel to walk from the permanent bench in Walker Street to Flinders Street, before signing the pledge of commitment against DV. Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said it was hoped increased activism could shine a light on the issue.

“Statistically, we see much higher levels of domestic violence here than in other parts of Australia,” she said. “The police talk about how every hour they’re called to a DV, and what we’re trying to do by highlighting it is to see if we can get people to talk and change attitudes.

“There’s a lot of support out there not just for victims, but for perpetrators who are really keen to break the cycle.”

The community is encouraged to visit the red bench in Flinders Street over the next 16 days of activism, and tie white ribbons to show their support.

An initiative by the Red Rose Foundation, the presence of a red bench in public aims to raise awareness and provide an opportunity for the importance of the issue to remain on display.

It’s hoped a red bench will be installed in every local government area in Queensland.