The Townsville community is being called on to come together for a powerful, blooming show of support to mark Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month (May 1 to 31).
Child protection organisation Act for Kids launched The Tree of Healing community art activation at the Community Gro Garbutt Centre to foster healing and raise awareness of DFV.
On display throughout May, community members are invited to colour a paper flower or write a message of healing on theirs, adding it to The Tree of Healing’s branches to create a powerful visual statement of support and awareness.
Act for Kids Executive Director Tom McIntyre said the activation served as a reminder to the Townsville community of the important role we all play in identifying and ending DFV.
“Act for Kids has two centres in Townsville providing support services to families and children who have experienced or are at risk of harm, and every week these teams receive a significant number of requests to help people experiencing domestic and family violence,” Mr McIntyre said.
“It is one of the most serious health and welfare issues facing Australia and affects more than 80 per cent of the people Act for Kids helps every year.”
The iconic jacaranda was chosen as the centrepiece for the art activation because its burst of purple flowers represents the international awareness colour for DFV.
The roots of The Tree of Healing honour those lost, serving as a poignant tribute, while the trunk represents growth as a country and the need to protect future generations.
Its leaves and flowers symbolise healing and our shared commitment to personal healing journeys.
The Tree of Healing will be on display at the Community Gro Garbutt Centre (4 Hugh St) throughout the month of May.
CEO of Community Gro Kathrin Meehan said: “the Garbutt Centre is proud to host The Tree of Healing this May, providing a safe and welcoming space for the community to come together, show support and raise awareness during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month”.
Community members are encouraged to visit the centre, add a flower or message of healing to the tree, and help strengthen the message that everyone deserves to live free from violence.
Support is available for anyone impacted by DFV:
Kids of Purple: www.kidsofpurple.org.au/
DVConnect Womensline (24/7): 1800 811 811
DVConnect Mensline (24/7): 1800 600 636
Kids Helpline (24/7): 1800 551 800
-ENDS-
Act for Kids media contact:
Melanie Whiting
0427 794 666
Melanie.whiting@actforkids.com.au