Nambucca Valley march sends powerful message on gender-based violence

Jaanyunili Bawrrungga’s Penny Stadhams (left) and Mila Mila Rokodakunivosa (right) with Nambucca Valley Council Deputy Mayor Sue Jenvey (centre) following last week's march.

Marchers and attendees to the free BBQ at the V-Wall were treated to some beautiful music.

Uniting Aboriginal Families Together team members Maddi Johnson and Shakiah Stacey talk with Danielle Jenkins following the march.

The Salvo’s coffee van was a welcome site for attendees at the BBQ at the V-Wall. The van was operated by the Salvation Army’s Steve Kay, Rob Tickle and Shannon Scott.

Lifetime Connect Child and Family Services coordinator Denise and Victims of Crime Support Worker Emma with Nambucca Valley Council Deputy Mayor Sue Jenvey following the march.

COMMUNITY solidarity was powerfully demonstrated last week as locals marched in Nambucca Heads in support of the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

The event, organised by the Nambucca Valley Domestic Violence Planning Group, drew community members and service organisations together to raise awareness and demand an end to domestic and sexual violence.

Beginning at the Nambucca Heads Tourist Information Centre and concluding at the iconic V-Wall, the march brought attention to the very real and urgent issues facing individuals and families affected by gender-based violence.

The event was spearheaded by Jaanyunili Bawrrungga Aboriginal Corporation (JB) in partnership with organisations such as Kempsey Families Inc., as part of a broader initiative to engage the community and build awareness.

Following the march, stalls and information booths were set up in the shadow of the big pelican at the V-Wall, offering information on resources, services, and opportunities for networking.

A free barbecue helped foster a relaxed and welcoming environment, encouraging open dialogue between support services and locals.

JB Family Support Worker Mila Rokodakunivosa, who operates from the Grants Hall in Bowraville, told News Of The Area, “We want this to be an annual event.
“Bringing attention to domestic violence, especially newer forms like digital abuse, is essential as we can’t ignore the ways digital violence can translate into real-life harm.”

The march coincided with the United Nations’ annual 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign that runs from 25 November to 10 December.

The campaign began in 1991 and continues to focus on the elimination of violence against women and girls.

This year’s UN theme, UNITE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls, underscores how fast-evolving technology can become a tool of harm.

Jaanyunili Bawrrungga Aboriginal Corporation, a community-based non-profit born from the Bowraville Solution Brokerage initiative, has been a leader in supporting vulnerable families and advocating for change since its inception in 2017.

As the 16 Days of Activism draws to a close on Human Rights Day, the message from Nambucca Heads is clear.

Ending violence requires community action, connection, and year-round dedication.

By Mick BIRTLES

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