IN RECOGNITION of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, the Coolum community now has a ‘red bench’ in Tickle Park, which will serve as a visual reminder that this often-hidden issue needs to be acknowledged and spoken about.

The ‘Reb Bench Project’ is an initiative of the Red Rose Foundation, which aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and to keep communication around the topic open and flowing.

The Coolum bench was unveiled recently to a crowd of those involved in the project, as well as special guests and representatives from local schools.

Red Benches are project managed by local community groups and stakeholders who brought the Tickle Park bench to light were the Coolum Men’s Shed, Coolum Police and both state and local government.

The project has been in the works for almost a year, with the bench crafted by volunteers at the Coolum Men’s Shed.

Coolum Men’s Shed President Charles Thomson said the Men’s Shed being involved in the project has sparked important conversations among its members about preventing domestic and family violence.

“We are proud to not only have built a physical symbol that domestic violence won’t be tolerated, but to contribute to the foundation that reaches out to those impacted in the community.”

Acting Officer in Charge of Coolum Police Station Senior Sergeant Joel Bryant said police play a critical role in responding to domestic and family violence, with new DV safe spaces recently unveiled at both Coolum and Noosa stations.

“These purpose-built spaces are aimed at ensuring victims, survivors and vulnerable persons feel safe, supported and heard,” Snr Sgt Bryant said.

“They are set apart from the operational areas of the station and include features for children, like toys and activities, along with IT access so victim-survivors can safely go online and connect with support services.”

The launch of the new bench in Tickle Park coincides with the start of Queensland’s Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, with this year’s theme of “Together Queenslanders can prevent domestic and family violence.”

The unveiling also saw $500 donated to the Red Rose Foundation.

Red Rose Foundation CEO Lucy Lord said the bench creates a space where victim-survivors feel seen, heard and supported, and community members are encouraged to reflect on their role in the collective response to domestic and family violence.
“Importantly, today’s launch also opens new opportunities for meaningful conversations between community leaders, organisations supporting victim survivors, and local service groups about what more can be done locally to strengthen prevention and early intervention efforts,” Ms Lord said.

Sunshine Coast Division 8 Councillor Taylor Bunnag thanked the community and government stakeholders for their contributions to the project.

“It demonstrates a strong community response to the prevention of domestic and family violence,” Cr Bunnag said.

“Continuing to raise awareness and have open discussions about domestic and family violence through projects such as this Red Bench is incredibly important.”

Member for Ninderry, Dan Purdie, further highlighted the importance of the project.

“Each red bench carries a simple but powerful message – let’s change the ending.

“This year’s theme is ‘Every Life Matters’, reminding us that every story matters, and every action counts.”

WHERE TO GET HELP 
If you or someone you know needs help now, the following services can help
1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732
DV Connect – 1800 811 811
Mensline Australia – 1300 789 978
Lifeline – 13 11 14
13 Yarn – 13 92 76
Police – 000

For more information on the Red Bench Project – www.redrosefoundation.com.au/red-bench-project.