Zonta Club of Bundaberg has launched its most ambitious 16 Days of Activism campaign to date, aimed at uniting the community in the fight against gender-based violence.
Featuring daily themed events from 25 November to 10 December, the campaign includes art installations, community gatherings and educational events across Bundaberg.
The program opens with the poignant ‘Ringing of the Bells’ ceremony at Christ Church Anglican Church, where each toll represents a life lost to domestic violence.
Zonta Club of Bundaberg President Jenny Maier said this year’s program reflects the community’s strengthened commitment to ending violence against women.
“With one woman currently losing her life to gender-based violence in Australia every week, our expanded program creates multiple pathways for community action,” Jenny said.
“From our opening ceremony to our final reflection, each day carries a distinct theme that encourages deeper understanding and involvement.
“The growing number of tolls each year tells a heartbreaking story that both saddens our community and strengthens our resolve to prevent future tragedies.”
Zonta Club of Bundaberg Board Member and Chair of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign Working Group 2024 Jo Leveritt said leading the campaign had shown her that Bundaberg is ready for change.
“Every organisation that’s joined us, every community member who’s painted a red shoe and every person who attends our events sends a powerful message – we will not stay silent about violence against women,” Jo said.
“As Advocacy Chair, I see this campaign as a crucial platform for turning awareness into action.
“These 16 days give us 16 opportunities to educate, engage and empower our community to create lasting change.”
The campaign includes business engagement through ‘Orange Day’ on 27 November, where local host businesses display an “orange lady”- the international colour symbolising a future free from violence.
Key installations and events
- The internationally recognised Red Shoes Installation at Bundaberg Botanic Gardens, featuring over 500 pairs of shoes painted by 660+ local participants.
- IMPACT Community Services’ Clothesline Project at Hinkler Central Shopping Centre, displaying survivors’ stories through painted shirts.
- A Q&A breakfast with Bundaberg Today’s Ingrid Barham at Brothers Sports Club.
- Red Heart messages on Remembrance Trees at Bundaberg Base Hospital and Regional Council.
- The Pageant of Lights Parade participation.
- A community Park Run at Nielsen Park, Bargara.
- Red Benches reflection points across five key locations.
Jo emphasised the campaign’s comprehensive approach to community engagement.
“Through these varied events and installations, we’re creating multiple opportunities for every community member to take part in preventing violence against women,” she said.
“Each activity, from our morning prayer services to our community walks, builds momentum toward our goal of a safer, more respectful community for all.”
Community members can participate in various ways:
- Attend the opening and closing bell ceremonies
- Visit the art installations
- Join the Brothers Sports Club campaign launch breakfast with Ingrid Barham
- Participate in community walks and the Park Run
- Engage with information stands at Shalom Markets
- Support the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle fundraiser
Community can listen to ABC Wide Bay radio for daily updates on the program.
Download the calendar and find out more here.
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