Project Pink Packs A Punch In The Fight Against Domestic Violence

By Hannah McNamara

A grassroots movement in Mackay is punching beyond barriers in the fight against domestic violence, not just with words, but with gloves, grit and a dash of pink.

Last Wednesday, Project Pink held its official opening and activewear fundraiser at the CWA Hall on Gordon Street, offering locals a chance to support the cause with every $5 item sold helping fund vital programs for women and teen girls affected by domestic violence.

Founded by local mother and entrepreneur Charlotte Heller, Project Pink is a not-for-profit organisation that empowers women and teen girls affected by domestic violence through boxing and self-defence, while offering a safe, supportive environment for healing.

“Project Pink is our not-for-profit organisation that is dedicated to helping women heal either during or post-domestic violence,” Charlotte said.

“We focus on dealing with the trauma, anger, the emotional toll and then also the mental health impacts that are associated with domestic violence.”

With mental health at the core of the program, Project Pink combines physical activity with peer support and life skills to rebuild lives fractured by fear and abuse.

“That is just one part of our program,” she explained.

“That is the physical aspect that I think you can outwork a lot of trauma and anger, as well as lowering mental health impacts by about 20%.”

The vision took shape in February 2022 when Charlotte spotted a building and knew it had to become a haven for victim-survivors.

“I actually saw a building that I was obsessed with, and I was like, I need to have a boxing gym in there, for women affected by DV.”

Three years and countless late nights later, juggling two children and running a business, Charlotte says it’s been “a labour of love,” crediting a beautiful team that have put in countless hours of help.

Project Pink’s impact even goes beyond the gloves. Through parenting programs, daily life coaching, and a community-driven approach, it supports women as they rebuild from the ground up.

“Our mission is to create a safe and empowering space for women impacted by domestic violence,” Charlotte said.

“Through specialised boxing and self-defence programs… we aim to equip women with the physical and mental tools to regain control of their lives.”

Charlotte encourages others to speak up.

“I want to help remove the stigma, and the shame, guilt, and the feelings that are associated with domestic violence for so many where they are kept silent,” she said.

“I think the way that we can break the power that domestic violence has on so many women and so many families is by bringing it to light… and the way we do that is through truth.”

The team is currently seeking community and business support to secure a permanent space.

“We welcome support from local individuals and businesses who share our vision, as every contribution helps us bring our full program to life and reach more women in need.”

For more information, visit Project Pink on social media.

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Charlotte Heller and Rose Dee from Project Pink at the official opening and activewear fundraiser last Wednesday. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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