Walk Against Family Violence to take place in Greater Shepparton

The event forms part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, a United Nations international initiative held each year from 25 November (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December (Human Rights Day).

The community walk will bring local residents together to take a visible stand against family violence and to promote equality, respect and safety for women and girls across the Greater Shepparton area.

The walk will commence at 1.00pm from the northern end of Victoria Park Lake, near the playground area, before looping around the grassy knoll and returning to the main event space.

Attendees can enjoy food, kids’ activities and a range of community stalls and support services hosted by members of the 16 Days Working Group. These stalls will provide opportunities to learn more about local programs, resources and ways to take action.

Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the event is an important reminder that everyone has a role to play in preventing family violence.

“Violence in any form is never acceptable. The Walk Against Family Violence is a chance for our community to come together, show support for survivors, and commit to building a safer and more respectful society for all,” he said.

Council’s Social Equity Project Coordinator, Lisa Lymbery, from the Goulburn Valley 16 Days of Activism Working Group, said the walk was about standing together as a community.

“The Walk Against Family Violence is about standing together as a community to say that everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and supported. It is a powerful reminder that change starts with all of us through the conversations we have, the actions we take, and the support we show to those affected by violence,” she said.

Council’s Social Equity and Safety Team is supporting the coordination of this year’s campaign and walk, alongside local agencies and organisations working to prevent violence and support affected individuals and families.

Further details about the walk, visit shepp.city/wafv or contact Council’s Coordinator Safer Communities on 5832 9700 or email CommunityWellbeing@shepparton.vic.gov.au