The Ballina community will once again stand together to say ‘No’ to domestic and family violence with this year’s Walk for Respect and Change, a powerful event uniting schools, businesses, service organisations, and residents to create awareness and inspire change.
On Friday, 28 November, everyone is invited to gather at 12.30pm at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre (next to the Ballina Pool) and walk together to the Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) in a show of solidarity and support for a violence-free community.
At the BISC, attendees will hear from an inspiring lineup of guest speakers including:
- Dr Bridget Mottram – NSW Police Force, Strategic Policy & Project Manager, Coercive Control, Domestic & Family Violence Command.
- Damian Loone – Retired Detective Sergeant and Ballina Councillor.
- Dave Harmon – Rotary International South Pacific Lead, Rotary Says NO to Domestic and Family Violence; Past District 9640 Governor.
- Clem de Vos and CJ Dodgson – Ballina Coast High School Captain.
The afternoon program will be hosted by Ballina Coast High School Captains Ernie Guy and Rachel Dick, and feature music and dance performances by BCHS students that highlight unity, strength, and respect.
As part of the 16 Days of Activism, a Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Display will also be featured outside the Ballina Police Station.
Young advocates for change
Setting the tone for the following day’s walk, Thursday 27 November will include a separate event in Ballina, the Youth Leaders Breakfast, bringing together local high schools to hear from state and national leaders on Respectful Relationships, mental health, and the impact of growing up in abusive environments.
The breakfast will be held from 7am at Cherry Street Sports Club, Ballina, giving young people the opportunity to engage directly with speakers, share ideas, and explore how respect, empathy, and leadership can shape safer communities.
These events are organised by the Rotary Club of Ballina-on-Richmond and supported by NSW Police.
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