Community & Business
2 August, 2024
Red bench is something to talk about
YUNGABURRA’S Maude Kehoe Park has a new bit of furniture that provides a contemplative space to sit, think and learn.
A striking red bench will officially be launched on Wednesday (31 July) carrying the inscription, “Change the ending … of domestic violence.”
“It catches the attention, gets people talking,” Yungaburra resident Alice Blafzczak said.
“The more we remind people to stop, sit and think, the more we can try and stop domestic violence. It’s about education.”
For Alice, it has been a three-and-a-half-year mission to establish the bench, jumping red tape hurdles, council staff changes and subsequent delays, and site placement debates within the community.
She began the project after meeting the founder of the Red Rose Foundation, Betty Taylor AM. The foundation supports and encourages communities to be part of the Red Bench campaign across the country.
“I wanted to do something. One in four families in Australia experience some sort of domestic violence. It’s pretty horrific,” she said.
“Our kids are watching, and we need to show them this is not the norm and stop further generations from going down this path.”
She said quite a few dignitaries had been invited to the launch, which will begin at 10am in the park, including Mayor Rod Marti, council members, state MPs, and representatives from groups such as the Rape Crisis Centre and Women’s Shelter.
Alice will also be handing out red roses on the day, with useful contacts attached on a small card.
As for the bench, you cannot miss it.
“It’s as red as red, it’s brilliant,” Alice said, adding that the Men’s Shed had been wonderful in revamping and re-painting the council-donated bench.
Alice hopes to continue her campaign to have a red bench in all the towns on the Tablelands. Already they have emerged in Cairns, Mareeba, Malanda and further north.
She recalls a recent visitor to Yungaburra from England who noticed the red bench and asked about it.
“She was really taken with it and said she would take the idea back to England,” Alice said.
“We’re spreading the message.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact: DVCONNECT on 1800811811
