Mackay region’s Mothers’ Union branch is stepping up to support local children living with domestic and family violence, launching a community push to place specialised books into libraries and support organisations across the region.
The initiative aligns with the global 16 Days of Activism, beginning 25 November, and will continue locally through to the end of the year as Mothers’ Union Mackay Region welcomes donations to expand the reach of the program.
The branch has already begun purchasing copies of This is Not Yours to Carry by Sarah Brown and Matt Brown – a children’s book for cycle breakers, to help children understand that the violence and anger in the home is not their fault. The resource is intended to provide practical support for children currently experiencing harm, while also helping to break the long-term cycle.
Mothers’ Union Mackay Region President Sheryl McAuley said the goal is to “get a copy of the book into every organisation that can benefit from it”.
“There are children in our community who are going to school each day carrying experiences no child should ever have to navigate,” Ms McAuley said.
“This book gives them language, reassurance and age-appropriate guidance so they know they are not alone.
“We believe early support is critical in keeping children safe now - and in helping prevent violence in the future.”
Ms McAuley said the project was a practical way for the community to participate in the fight against family violence.
“Awareness is important, but so is action.
“This is something tangible we can do right here in Mackay region to support our kids today.”
Distribution will include the six local public libraries, as well as organisations that assist those experiencing domestic and family violence. Mothers’ Union Mackay Region have Mackay Women’s Services, The Neighbourhood Hub, Broken Ballerina and Samaritan House Mackay on their list already, and are open to suggestions from the community for where else this resource would be useful for local kids.
Including postage, each book is $25. For more information or to donate, contact Mackay Anglican Cluster on 07 4957 3341 or email admin@mackayanglicans.org.au.
Mothers' Union President Sheryl McAuley with children's book aimed at assisting children experiencing domestic violence. Photo supplied
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
.jpeg)
