A Rally Cry For Change

Mackay Marches To Shatter The Silence On Domestic Violence

By Hannah McNamara

A wave of purple swept through Mackay’s city centre last Friday, as more than 1000 people rallied together in a powerful show of unity to march against domestic and family violence.

From the early morning hours, the streets filled with the steady rhythm of footsteps and the echo of a collective chant:

“What do we want? RESPECT!”
“When do we want it? NOW!”

Led by the Rotary Club of Mackay and Resource Industry Network, the Respect in Every Step: March to End Domestic Violence united 12 schools, numerous local organisations, and everyday citizens in a vibrant, purposeful procession. Participants walked shoulder to shoulder from the CBD to Bluewater Quay, determined to make a stand – and make it matter.

More than a march, it was a statement. A declaration that silence is no longer an option, and complacency is no longer acceptable.

Enough is enough.

Among those walking was Queensland Premier David Crisafulli, who praised Mackay’s stand for justice and compassion.

“Mackay locals marched to say no to domestic and family violence in Queensland,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“For too long domestic and family violence has been a scourge in the shadows, and raising awareness in numbers like this makes a difference.”

The focus of the march extended beyond protest – it looked to prevention, to education, and to shaping a safer future by equipping the next generation with knowledge and respect.

That purpose was embraced wholeheartedly by Mackay Northern Beaches State High School, whose students walked with pride and conviction.

“We are proud to have had a group of Year 11 and 12 students participate in the Respect in Every Step: March to End Domestic Violence,” a school representative said.

“Our students joined other schools and groups from Mackay, along with Queensland Premier David Crisafulli MP, on the march through Mackay CBD.”

Following this, they heard presentations from Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, Nigel Dalton MP and Superintendent of Police Dean Cavanagh.

“Big thanks to The Rotary Clubs of Mackay for their organisation of this event and for continuing to raise awareness,” the school added.

The streets fell silent as speakers delivered heartfelt speeches at Bluewater Quay, each voice reinforcing the need for bold community action and systemic change.

Mackay Police also joined the movement, reaffirming their commitment to supporting victims and ending the cycle of violence.

“Mackay Police were joined by the community for the Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Awareness March, taking a stand, and raising awareness,” police said.

“Superintendent Dean Cavanagh delivered a speech following the march, recognising victims of DFV and remembering those who have lost their lives to DFV.

“With DFV Prevention Month (May) coming to an end, it’s a timely reminder that we all have a role to play in creating a safer Queensland.

“Let’s keep taking action to end DFV.”

Councillors, too, lent their voices and footsteps to the cause, including Cr Nathenea MacRae, who expressed her pride in the turnout.

“Proud to be involved in today's march with Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson to bring awareness to Domestic Violence. Great to see our schools support, with their students’ participation.”

While the march may have ended at Bluewater Quay, its message marches on, in hearts, conversations, and the unshakable belief that respect should be a non-negotiable, and that no one deserves to feel unsafe in their own home.

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More than 1000 people - including Queensland Premier David Crisafulli - marched through Mackay last Friday in a powerful, united stand against domestic and family violence, calling for respect, prevention, and lasting change. Photo source: David Crisafulli MP

Photo source: Mackay Northern Beaches State High School

Photo source: Queensland Police Service

Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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