Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has praised Redlands Coast residents for their generosity in a challenging year to help those affected by domestic and family violence.
More than 270 people attended the sold-out live stage show Musique en Rouge on Saturday 7 November at Redland Performing Arts Centre and in the process raised more than $50,000 for local support services.
“I am thrilled at the response to this year’s new-look fundraiser, after COVID-19 restrictions meant we weren’t able to hold our popular Diner en Rouge mystery location sit-down gala dinner,” Cr Williams said.
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“But the stage show was very well received.
“This year’s event brings the total raised over the past six years to almost $400,000 and I thank everyone who has contributed to that figure, in particular Redlands Coast resident Dan Holzapfel, who has been a generous benefactor from the start.
“The funds raised through these events are distributed locally to support the amazing service providers who assist women and children whose lives have been shattered by violence.”
At last year’s event, Redland Coast’s Maybanke Accommodation & Crisis Support Service was presented with a cheque for $250,000 so they could furnish four new crisis accommodation units provided by the State Government, and build a playground on site.
Cr Williams said some of the money raised would also support the Red Rose Foundation’s Red Bench project across Redlands Coast.
“The red benches serve as a permanent and visible reminder that domestic and family violence occurs within our community, and also that people are standing up to do something about it,” Cr Williams said.
“Redlands Coast became home to Queensland’s first red bench last year, and Council is now committed to install a further 10 benches across the city.
“Everyone in the community has a responsibility to play a role in raising awareness of family violence.
“Through support of events such as Musique en Rouge, the Redlands Coast community has shown it is prepared to stand up and make a real difference for people whose lives have been torn apart.”
Cr Williams thanked all organisations and individuals on the front line helping survivors of domestic and family violence.
Special guests were Lloyd and Sue Clarke in their first official speaking appearance since the tragic deaths of their daughter Hannah Clarke and young grandchildren Aaliyah, Laianah and Trey in February this year at Camp Hill.
Musique en Rouge featured sensational performances by Mirusia, Luke Kennedy and Naomi Price and band, Flipside Circus, Manoeuvre and Daniel J. Lewis.
ABC Radio’s Kelly Higgins-Devine was a consummate MC for the event.
