News
20 June, 2024
Hundreds of men rally for positive changes
Almost 200 people attended the inaugural ‘Real Men Rally’ event at Kayo Stadium on June 16, showing their support in stopping domestic violence (DV).
The event, which called on men especially to stand their ground against DV and recognise sexism, has been called “a real eye opener” and an “amazing event,” with the guest speakers having far exceeded expectations.
Some of the highlights included two survivors sharing their stories, Jet Xavier sharing his story as a former perpetrator, Dave Krumer getting emotional about being a bystander to his best friend’s abuse, which resulted in her and her four kids being burned alive, and QLD Police Commissioner, Steve Gollschewski taking off his police hat to speak as a father, after sharing DV statistics.
Wamuran resident and one of the organisers, Karen Ahl, said they were “really pleased” with the turnout, considering it was the first ever of its kind.
“We would have loved more because the messages shared by our presenters were so powerful,” she said.
“Each speaker far exceeded our expectations and the entire event was incredibly moving, pertinent and encouraging.”
Mindset coach and founder Sean Gordon OAM said the feedback he and the new organisation have received since the event has shown them how important this message is.
“The anecdotal feedback yesterday (June 16) was so strong on how powerful the occasion was,” he said.
Despite the attendance not being as high as desired, the organisation is already discussing another rally in the future.
“The key players are debriefing this week as we have other locations looking to replicate this event - there is already talk of this becoming a movement,” Ms Ahl said.
Attendee Brad Flynn shared his views of the rally on social media, calling it “one of the most moving and impactful events I’ve ever attended (and I have been to a few),” a sentiment echoed multiple times by other users.
Some of the attendees included Moreton Bay mayor Peter Flannery, various Moreton Bay councillors, including Tony Latter and Karl Winchester, and federal members Terry Young MP and Luke Howarth MP.
More info on the rally and to sign the ‘DV Stops with Me’ pledge, visit https://realmenrally.org/
