Council is proud to support Respect Victoria and Safe + Equal by partnering with local organisations to deliver a range of activities for the UN 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, running from 25 November to 10 December.
This year's campaign offers multiple ways for the community to get involved, with the Free to Be Me Photo Competition taking centre stage. The competition invites residents to capture and share images that challenge gender stereotypes and celebrate respect, equality, and safety. Entries are now open, and the competition will also feature a People's Choice Award, with the community invited to vote for their favourite entry. Shortlisted works will be showcased in a special exhibition during the 16 Days of Activism campaign. Entries close on Sunday 9 November.
Alongside the competition, a range of local events will take place throughout November and December.
On Wednesday 12 November, join us to hear panellists Grace Tame, Mat Stevenson, Sonia Orchard, and Madison Griffiths share their stories and explore the role of power, consent, and trauma in It's Time to Talk About Power at Kyneton Town Hall. This carries a content warning due to the difficult subject matter. Bookings are required.
On Thursday 20 November, there will be a free screening of Left Write Hook, followed by a Q&A moderated by Alexandra Riches, featuring the Director and Producer of 'Left, Write Hook, a survivor advocate and representatives from the Centre for Non-Violence and Centre Against Sexual Assault Central Victoria. The documentary follows survivors of childhood sexual abuse on their healing journeys and carries a content warning due to the difficult subject matter. Bookings are required.
Then on Monday 24 November, the Walk Against Family Violence brings the community together on foot. The walk begins at 1.30pm from Kyneton Community House and finishes at the Mechanics Institute with special guest speakers, a sausage sizzle and activities to join in on. Participants are encouraged to wear something orange in solidarity. Speakers include Dr Innocent Mwatsiya of La Trobe University, a young participant from this year's Kid X program at Sunbury and Cobaw Community Health and representatives from the Zonta Club of Kyneton.
Additional events, including a Story Walk and a series of film screenings and panel discussions on gender-based violence awareness and prevention, will also be held during the campaign, with further details to be announced.
Mayor Dom Bonanno said "16 Days of Activism is an important time for our community to come together and stand against gender-based violence. This walk not only raises awareness but also honours the strength of those affected and shows that everyone has a role to play in creating a safe and respectful community."
For details of all 16 Days of Activism activities and to enter the photo competition, visit www.mrsc.vic.gov.au/16-Days
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