Community & Business
4 December, 2024
Community response to hidden abuses
Domestic violence campaign
"Insidious" is how Superintendent Shane Gleeson framed domestic violence in his presentation to the engaged crowd of an estimated 100 people of all ages in the central Maryland Street Piazza on Friday, November 29 for Zonta Stanthorpe's campaign towards justice.
The passing of the preceding shower gave way for the crowd to be bolstered as such, with the orange of Zonta members, and other vibrant colours, as pictured, of the Lions Club of Stanthorpe as well as two local Rotary groups.
Police presence was appreciated as was the visible support of Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton and Councillors Sarah Deane, Morwenna Harslett and Russell Wantling.
Superintendent Gleeson spoke of changing the term "domestic violence" to be far more encompassing and better understood - to "domestic abuse".
He said while often hidden, the police service values support from victims' family, friends and neighbours where possible, and that at various times, the local community groups present had been "really helpful".
"Some (people) are not willing to help, that is why family, friends and neighbours are really helpful," he said, acknowledging Zonta Stanthorpe who have assisted with emergency housing.
"Zonta has helped us provide some safe housing and I wish to express appreciation ... (as this) shines a light on domestic violence."
Mayor Hamilton said the gathered crowd was an indication of "how many different community groups are engaged with such an important issue in the town," adding, "Council was delighted to support Zonta in putting this together."
Councillors Deane and Harslett also spoke to The Town & Country Journal, Cr Deane saying she had known of local victims of violence and the march in support, up and down Maryland Street after the presentations benefits in "bringing domestic violence to the forefront".
Zonta Stanthorpe's social media representative, Debbie Majella gave a stirring personal account of her sister being killed by a partner (which we are featuring in our Cuppa column this week) and told us the response from the community when promoting the Friday night event, and the crowd itself, was outstanding, with locals interested in the 400 orange footprints seen.
"Next year we will be doing this again," Debbie told us. "I have a spokesperson who also promotes this for the males ... (as this violence) is not just about women, it's about men and children too."
The articulate Zonta member was preceded by Zonta International representative, Sandy Venn-Brown who thanked the groups present, as well as local police and Southern Downs Council, for support.
"To date, 65 women have lost their lives in Australia," Sandy said, repeating the number for emphasis. "Despite numerous efforts, countess women and girls face various forms of violence in their lives (and) we must not let this continue to happen. Through the Zonta Says NO (to gender-based violence) campaign, our members have taken action.
"We must all work for a better world for women and girls."
