The Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network commemorates a decade of unity and support.
The Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network is proud to announce the 10th anniversary of The Midland March That Matters, a powerful community event that has been instrumental in raising awareness and support for those affected by family and domestic violence.
From its beginnings as a small stall in the Midland Gate shopping centre in 2012, to a full-scale march led by the WA Police Pipe Band, this annual event held during the 16 Days in WA has grown into one of WA’s biggest domestic violence awareness events.
This significant milestone marks a decade of solidarity and determination in our collective stance to spread the strong message that there is no excuse for abuse.
Kristy Darnborough, Chairperson of the Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network and Relationships Australia WA Manager, Family and Domestic Violence Services said the Midland March That Matters acts as a message of hope and unity in our community.
“We are pleased to commemorate this milestone and reflect on the progress we've made in raising awareness about family and domestic violence in our community,” she said.
“But our work is far from over. We must continue to amplify the message of healing and hope for survivors and unite in our efforts to prevent and combat this ongoing issue."
The day's program includes a short March led by the WA Police Pipe Band starting at 11.45 am, symbolising the community's commitment to standing together against family and domestic violence.
This year, the event promises to be even more impactful with a lineup of guest speakers and entertainers, including:
the Hon. Sabine Winton, Minister for Early Childhood Education; Child Protection; Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence; Community Services.
City of Swan Mayor Tanya Richardson
Survivor of Family and Domestic Violence
Detective Matt Bethune, known as the 'Singing Detective
Moorditj Noongar Community College
Tanya Richardson, City of Swan Mayor, said it would be an honour for her to speak at the event.
“The Midland March That Matters is about people from all walks of life standing together against the scourge of family and domestic violence,” Mayor Richardson said.
“Events like this show how united our community is about supporting survivors and breaking the cycle of abuse.”
Ms Darnborough reiterated the importance of having such distinguished speakers and entertainers support the march.,"
"Their presence underscores the significance of our cause and their commitment to helping end family and domestic violence."
Another powerful reminder of the impact of family and domestic violence will be on display at the event this year as part of the interactive exhibit, the Clotheslines Project by Zonta House.
Each t-shirt on display will be decorated to represent a woman's experience, whether by the survivor herself or someone who cares about her. Attendees at the event will be encouraged to leave their own message of hope and support.
Information stalls hosted by local community organisations and businesses will be present at the event, offering valuable resources. Attendees can also enjoy a free sausage sizzle generously provided by IGA Midland and the Rotary Club of Midland.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, November 30, 2023
Time: 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Location: Juniper Gardens (behind Midland Dome) - enter from The Crescent or Cale Street
For more information and to get involved, please contact Kristy Darnborough at 6164 0480.
The Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network is a collective effort involving representatives from various organisations, including Relationships Australia WA, headspace Midland, Patricia Giles Centre for Non-Violence, Swan Communities for Children, Centrecare, Midland Women's Health Care Place, Koolkuna, Vinnies WA, Swan Rotary, Department of Communities, Zonta House, Indigo Junction, St John of God Hospital - Midland, City of Swan, WA Police, Midlas, and Australian Red Cross.
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