Hindmarsh Shire Council chief executive Monica Revell said the walks, in the shire’s four major towns, aimed to raise community awareness of the movement.
“We view it as a great opportunity to get the conversations started around primary prevention, active bystander action, and implementing social change,” she said.
“It’s also a great opportunity to display council’s commitment and investment in primary prevention.”
Council has appointed Stephanie Lynch to the new role of Free from Violence project officer.
“Council received funding from the State Government to employ a Free from Violence Officer, FFVO, as part of the extension of the government’s 10-year plan to end family violence,” Mrs Revell said.
“The FFVO is a funded role from 2024 until 2027, and Hindmarsh is one of 12 councils that has received funding for this period.
“In an earlier funding round, 15 other councils received funding.”
Mrs Revell said Ms Lynch was new to the role, and had experience in a variety of social demographics.
“She approaches primary prevention and the differing types of violence with great empathy and care,” she said.
“Her previous experience in training and education helps her to be able to provide information on the topic effectively to various groups of people.
“She believes the value of conversation when approaching these topics cannot be understated and relishes the opportunity to contextualise and adjust her approach as required.”
Council has previously hosted events and activities for 16 Days of Activism, but it is the first time a walk has been scheduled.
People are encouraged to wear orange and bring banners or signs of support – those unable to march are welcome to attend a free barbecue following the walk.
The walks, each from 6pm until 7.30pm, are at Nhill on November 25, from Nhill Memorial Community Centre to Nhill Lake; Dimboola on November 26, from Dimboola Library to the train park; Rainbow on December 2, from Turbo Gallery to Rainbow Skate Park; and Jeparit on December 3, from Menzies Square to Riverbank Precinct.
The United Nation’s international campaign, 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, takes place each year from November 25 until December 10.
For more information, people can call Ms Lynch on 5391 4444 or email slynch@hindmarsh.vic.gov.au.
People in need of support can call emergency number triple zero, Lifeline on 131 114 or 1800 737 732.
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