Rotarians are people of action. They are always among the first to respond to disasters, lend a helping hand to those in need or help resolve some of the world’s most difficult and persistent social problems. In recent years, domestic violence has emerged as a major social problem.
And unfortunately, last year’s coronavirus lockdowns, combined with unemployment and financial stress related to the pandemic, have caused domestic violence cases to increase across Australia. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare says ‘family, domestic and sexual violence is a major national health and welfare issue that can have lifelong impacts for victims and perpetrators. One in six women and one in sixteen men have experienced physical violence from a current or previous cohabiting partner. Furthermore, 25% of women and 5% of men have experienced emotional abuse from a current or previous cohabiting partner.
The situation in Queensland is no different. According to an article in the Guardian on 1 December 2020, Karyn Walsh, Chief Executive of the Brisbane Domestic Violence Service said ‘demand across all programs, including legal support, counselling, and casework, has increased by 30%.’
To do something about this escalating social problem the Rotary Club of Caboolture collaborated with Councillor Tony Latter and came up with the idea of the “Red Ride” against domestic violence. Councillor Tony Latter said, ‘In previous work within this area I have seen firsthand the impact domestic violence has on the lives affected and believe everyone has a responsibility to speak out and take action in their capacity for better social outcomes.’
The Moreton Bay Regional Council, Moreton Bay Industry and Tourism (MBRIT), and other major sponsors quickly came on board to support the event. The idea is to have motorbikes, which will be decorated in red, take a scenic tour around the beautiful Moreton Bay Region. The Red Ride will start on Saturday 1 May 2021 at Caboolture Show Grounds. Starting times will be staggered from 8.00 am and there will be a “blessing of the bikes” as each group takes off.
Breakfast and coffee will be available from food vendors and pop-up stores will have displays explaining domestic violence!
The Red Ride ends at the Woodford Show Grounds where you can enjoy entertainment with Community Radio 101.5FM presenters, Pop-Up Stores and Food Vendors. A Bike “Show N Shine” with the winner chosen by Celebrity Judges.
A “Red Ride” music concert, hosted by singer, songwriter and guitarist, Dave Reynolds will start at 5.30 pm. Chris Knight will share the Stage and will entertain the crowds with some of Buddy Holly’s music and you will think you’re back in 1958! The cost for a Red Rider is $25 and a bike passenger is an additional $25 if both attend the Red Ride Music Concert. General entry is available if you only want to attend the Red Ride Music Concert at the cost of $25.
Tickets can be purchased through Humanitix: https://events.humanitix.com/redride All Proceeds will be donated to ‘Act for Kids’, ‘Save the Children’ and ‘Variety the Children’s Charity.
Come along and join us for a great day out and at the same time send a message to perpetrators that there is no place for domestic violence!
Riana Botha 0412 968 085 [email protected]