Fitzroy Crossing launches ‘Us Without Abuse' to tackle family violence
The streets of Fitzroy Crossing were awash with orange as hundreds of community members donned T-shirts to mark the launch of Us Without Abuse, a joint campaign by Kimberley Community Legal Services and the Marnin Women's Centre.
The colour — symbolic of the fight against domestic violence — stood as a powerful statement against both domestic violence and elder abuse.
The campaign follows the deaths of two women, allegedly at the hands of their partners, in the Shire of Derby-West Kimberley in less than six months.
Police charged a Derby man with one count of murder over the death of a 32-year-old Fitzroy Crossing woman on December 14 last year.
On Easter Sunday, a 38-year-old man was charged with the murder of a 39-year-old woman in Mowanjum Aboriginal Community near Derby.
Marninwarntikura Women's Resource Centre CEO Emily Carter didn't mince words, calling for immediate action against family violence across the region in a speech.
'This is not just a message — it's a movement. A call for accountability, healing and action. In the Fitzroy Valley, we don't wait for solutions — we lead them,' Ms Carter said.
Despite the gravity of the matter, after speeches by leaders and a march led by Gurama Yani U (Men's Shed), the community gathered on Fitzroy Oval to enjoy lunch, kids' entertainment, and music performances by local artists.
The family-themed inclusive event showcased the Fitzroy Valley's community spirit in times of darkness.
The Us Without Abuse campaign has spent the past six months tackling family violence and harmful behaviours across TV, radio, and online.
Featuring personal stories from Kimberley locals, the campaign works to destigmatise abuse and empower individuals to speak out.
Kimberley Community Legal Services CEO Christine Robinson said the partnerships with Kimberley organisations and leaders were elevating the campaign's reach and message.
'We are excited to be joining local communities and organisations to bring the campaign face-to-face with people across the region,' Ms Robinson said.
The campaign has also been nominated for the upcoming Community Service Excellence Awards, with winners to be announced at the WACOSS Conference on Monday.
'Being recognised in the upcoming awards would be a brilliant way to amplify this powerful campaign and continue making a meaningful impact on such a vital issue,' Ms Robinson said.
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