Council Stands United Against Domestic and Family Violence

Published on 21 November 2025

Livingstone Shire Council is proud to support the global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign, launching this important initiative with a community lunch today, as part of the Red Shoe Movement.

The Red Shoe Movement is a powerful local initiative coordinated by the Capricorn Coast Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Working Group, of which Council is an active member.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the devastating impact of domestic and family violence, with red shoes displayed across the community representing the lives tragically lost.

Councillor Andrea Friend said the 16 Days of Activism campaign provides an important opportunity for the community to come together in support of safety, respect, and equality.

“Every pair of red shoes represents a life lost to domestic and family violence — a powerful reminder of the urgent need for change,” Cr Friend said.

“By taking part in initiatives like this, we not only honour those who have been affected but also take a collective stand for a safer, more compassionate community where everyone’s human rights are respected.”

Community members were invited to join Council staff before the lunch, to help paint donated shoes red.

The completed displays will then be placed around the Centre grounds as a striking visual reminder of the many victims of domestic and family violence, remaining on display until 10 December.

The launch lunch featured guest speakers Chris Griffin (QPS) and Councillor Andrea Friend, who shared their insights and experiences in working to prevent violence and support affected individuals and families.

To close the campaign, Council will host a Human Rights Day Morning Tea on Tuesday, 10 December at the Yeppoon RSL, acknowledging the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every person and commemorating the 1948 adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Livingstone Shire Council’s Melanie Norman, who works closely with ICare participants and serves as an active member of the Capricorn Coast Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Working Group, said the campaign offers an opportunity for reflection, education, and community unity.

“The red shoes are a powerful symbol of those we’ve lost, and a reminder that we all have a role to play in standing up against violence and protecting the rights and safety of every individual,” Melanie said.

Council encourages local businesses and residents to get involved by displaying red shoes or attending the events to show their support for this vital cause.

Human Rights Day Morning Tea

Tuesday, 10 December

 Yeppoon RSL, 15 Normanby Street, Yeppoon

10am