Logan City Council has installed a new community bench in Boronia Heights, to help spread awareness about the impact of domestic and family violence.
The bench, located in the Boronia Bushland Reserve, has been installed in remembrance of Allison Baden-Clay, who was tragically killed in 2012.
Chair of the Allison Bayden-Clay Foundation, Vanessa Fowler said it’s important to encourage the conversation around domestic and family violence.
“Staying silent sends a message to the people using violence that their behaviour is acceptable,” she said.
“Creating awareness brings with it safety, support and change and it teaches people to recognise the warning signs of coercive control, reduces the stigma, and prevents future violence.”
Ms Fowler said the yellow bench is bittersweet for her family.
“We see it as a symbol of love and legacy for my sister, but it also sends a message of hope to the community,” she said.
“Hope that many will take the time to sit and reflect on their experiences, hope that they may take the time to rest and hope that there will be many conversations about the impact that domestic and family violence has on the community.”
“It is comforting to know that others will have a place to acknowledge their trauma, and to remember Allison and our advocacy as a positive legacy for her.”
Division 7 Councillor, Tim Frazer said the bench “serves as a lasting reminder about the important legacy of Allison Baden-Clay to everyone who passes by or sits on it.”
The bench is one of several erected across Division 7 to raise awareness about domestic violence and other issues in recent years. Others are in Middle Park, Forest Glen Park, Silvertop Park, Sweetgum Park and outside the Logan West Community Centre.
“I’m proud to support Council’s domestic violence bench project in Division 7,” Cr Frazer said.
Members of Allison’s family joined Division 7 Councillor Tim Frazer, State Member for Waterford Shannon Fentiman and Vanessa Fowler from the Allison Baden-Clay Foundation for the opening of the bench on Friday, January 30.
The orange and yellow bench features sunflowers, which were Allison’s favourite flower, and symbolise kindness and hope.
If you are experiencing domestic violence there are many places in Logan you can go for support, including The Centre for Women and Co, Red Rose Foundation, Strangulation Trauma Centre, YFS, Centre for Sexual Violence and Defenders for Hope.
Image: Division 7 Councillor Tim Frazer (centre), State Member for Waterford Shannon Fentiman and Vanessa Fowler from the Allison Baden-Clay Foundation at the new bench.
