The Lake Macquarie community will unite on Friday 30 October to take a stand against gendered violence as Reclaim the Night returns to the foreshore.
Lake Macquarie City Council is supporting the Lake Macquarie Domestic Violence Committee to deliver the annual event, bringing together residents, community organisations and local leaders to raise awareness and advocate for safer communities.
The 5.30-7.30pm event will feature a community walk, free barbecue and live entertainment, including Aboriginal dance performances, drumming demonstrations, games and family activities.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said the event was an important opportunity for the community to come together and take a stand against gendered violence.
"Reclaim the Night is about raising awareness, showing support for victim-survivors and sending a clear message that violence has no place in our community," he said.
"We're proud to be a leader in our community in this space, promoting conversations that lead to positive change."
Reclaim the Night is part of a global movement that began in Leeds, England, in 1977 and continues to advocate for women's safety and freedom from violence in public and private spaces.
The event leads into the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which begins in November.
According to national statistics, one in five Australian women has experienced sexual violence since the age of 15.
Hunter Region domestic violence incident rates remain above the NSW average in most local government areas, highlighting the importance of ongoing community awareness and action.
