Cobram turns out to support national rally against violence

By Simon Ruppert

Jul 30, 2024

Cobram residents turned out on Sunday, July 28, to call for an end to gender-based violence. Photo: Julie Moore.

The Cobram community turned out in strong numbers on Sunday, July 28 to once again take a stand against gender-based violence.

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A rally was held in Federation Park, to coincide with rallies being held across Australia.

A similar protest was held in April and organisers are keen to keep the topic at the forefront of people’s minds as they fight for change.

A message of solidarity was delivered at Federation Park on Sunday, July 28. Photo: Julie Moore.

One of the local organisers, Steph Sparrow, said just over 100 people attended.

“It was a really positive rally,” she said.

“We had a really good, mixed bag, from younger children to some of our older community members.

Attendees at the ‘No more: National Rally against Violence’ in Cobram. Photo: Julie Moore.

“We felt the support of the community. They were encouraged to make banners and bring placards.

“We had some laid out on the path, and people were holding them.”

It was the second rally aiming to end gender-based violence held in Cobram this year.

“The community is working to end sexual violence and bringing awareness to gender-based violence,” Ms Sparrow said.

Attendees at the ‘No more: National Rally against Violence’ in Cobram made placards showing solidarity in the fight to end gender-based violence. Photo: Julie Moore.

“And it’s a really important message. We want people to know if they’re experiencing gender-based violence, there is support available and their voice will be heard.”

Ms Sparrow said she was impressed by the range of speakers at the rally.

“I’m a teacher in my day job,” she said.

“The youngest speaker was only 18.

Attendees at the ‘No more: National Rally against Violence’ in Cobram laid flowers in honour of those who had lost their lives. Photo: Julie Moore.

“It’s hard to believe we live in a world where 54 women have been killed by gender violence this year in Australia.

“My hope is that when my students are grown up, there is a bit more action to address this, and hopefully that number will be much lower in the future.”