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Reclaim the Night 2026. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville
Rain failed to dampen the community’s resolve as locals walked through Airlie Beach for the second annual Reclaim the Night march, calling for women to feel safe in their community after dark.
Hosted by Whitsundays Counselling and Support, the walk from the Fairy Tree to Shingley Beach brought together residents of all ages, local police and Mayor Ry Collins in solidarity against sexual violence.
Reclaim the Night began in the UK in the 1970s, with women taking to the streets to protest violence and demand the freedom to walk safely after dark.
Held during Queensland’s Sexual Violence Awareness Month, the Airlie Beach march highlighted the same rights, which Whitsundays Counselling and support domestic and family violence coordinator Charlotte said women should not have to fight for.
“We should feel comfortable and safe walking in the community,” she said.
Charlotte praised the turnout despite the wet weather. At the Fairy Tree speakers highlighted everyone’s right to feel safe, regardless of gender, before participants set off on 1.6-kilometre walk to Shingley beach.
The walk concluded with snacks and further speeches raising awareness of sexual violence.
With a Reclaim the Night march taking place in Bowen the previous evening, the event reflected a shared commitment to making the Whitsundays safer for everyone.
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