Thursday, November 27, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Zonta Club Leads Local Push For 16 Days Of Activism Across The Whitsundays

The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays is once again stepping forward to support the global 16 Days of Activism, a campaign running from the 25th of November to the 10th of December that calls for an end to violence against women and girls.

This annual movement—which begins on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and concludes on Human Rights Day—encourages communities worldwide to stand up, speak out and take meaningful action to promote safety, respect and equality.

Club President Marlene Reiffel said the Whitsundays community plays an important role in driving change at a local level.

“When our community shows up — in orange, with open hearts, and ready to help — we send a powerful message that violence is never acceptable, and support is always close by.”

Throughout the 16 Days, locals will see the club’s bright Orange Ladies displayed at businesses around Airlie Beach, along with a bold awareness message on the Airlie Hill billboard. Members will also be hosting community stalls at the Lions Airlie Beach Community Markets on Saturday, the 29th of November and Saturday, the 6th of December, where residents can stop by for resources, conversations and ways to get involved.

This year, Zonta has partnered with DV Safe Phone, an Australian charity that provides refurbished mobile phone kits to victims of domestic violence through frontline agencies. Locals are encouraged to bring along any old mobile phones they no longer use — each one has the potential to become a crucial lifeline for someone in crisis.

Nikki Firmin, Head of Community and Corporate Partnerships at DV Safe Phone, said, “We’re so grateful to be part of this important call to action with the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays. Every phone donated truly makes a difference — it turns connection into safety for someone in crisis.”

In addition to market stalls, the club will be sharing daily messages on Facebook throughout the campaign, helping spread awareness and encourage more community conversations about respect, safety and support.

The club invites residents to wear orange, start conversations, bring a phone to donate and be part of the collective effort to create a safer community. For more information visit www.dvsafephone.org or email zontaclub7@hotmail.com.

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