Community Called on to Step Up Against Domestic Violence at Mary’s House Walk 2025
Sunday 26 October | St Leonards Park, North Sydney
Media release/Publicity posted 15 october,2025
Mary’s House Services is calling on Sydney locals to step up, speak out and walk together in support of women and children impacted by domestic and family violence (DFV) at the annual Mary’s House Walk on Sunday, 26 October.
The walk brings together people of all ages across the Lower North Shore to show that violence has no place in our homes or communities. Every step taken raises vital funds to help Mary’s House Services provide refuge, counselling and long-term support for women and children escaping violence.
Since opening in 2016, Mary’s House has delivered more than 17,000 nights of safe accommodation and continues to expand its social work and community outreach programs so more families can find safety when they need it most.
Mary’s House Services CEO Yvette Vignando said the walk is a powerful act of community solidarity and hope.
“Domestic and family violence happens in every postcode, sometimes even on our own street. Nine in 10 Australians recognise it as a national issue but only half see it as a problem in their own suburb. The Mary’s House Walk helps bring that reality home and reminds us that safety, respect and equality must start in our
own neighbourhoods.”
The statistics are confronting. One in four Australian children are by DFV and two in five women have experienced violence since the age of 15. It is also the leading cause of homelessness in Australia, with at least 10,000 women becoming homeless each year, most with children by their side.
Mayor of Mosman,Ann Marie Kimber said the walk demonstrates the community’s shared commitment to creating change.
“When we walk together, we show that our community does not accept violence. We stand ready to support those who need help and to send a strong message that everyone deserves a safe home.”
Coby Thomas from the North Sydney Bears said local sporting communities play an important role in driving respect both on and off the field.
“Sport has always been about teamwork, respect and looking out for each other, values that extend well beyond the game. The Bears and I are proud to support the Mary’s House Walk and the message that violence has no place in our homes or our community.”
This year’s 8 kilometre route winds from St Leonards Park through Ball’s Head Reserve, McMahons Point and Lavender Bay, a scenic, family-friendly loop open to walkers of all ages (and dogs on leads). The morning will feature live music from the NSW Police Brass Band, a Rydges Hotel North Sydney collaboration
with Rotary sponsored sausage sizzle, coffee service, raffle and family-friendly activities, making it a vibrant day of community connection and purpose.
Local schools, sports clubs, workplaces and families are encouraged to form teams, and walk together in support of safer futures for all.
Event Details
Location: St Leonard’s Park, Miller Street, North Sydney (adjacent to North Sydney Oval)
Date: Sunday 26 October 2025
Registrations open 8:00 am | Walk commences 9:00 am
Join the walk or donate: marys-house-services-walk-2025.raiselysite.com
About Mary’s House:
Mary’s House Services is a community-driven, not-for-profit organisation supporting women and children escaping domestic and family violence. Since opening in 2016, it has provided more than 17,000 nights of safe accommodation and delivers ongoing outreach through, offering counselling, legal and financial advice,
and wellbeing programs.
Operating with less than 10% government funding, Mary’s House relies on community donations and partnerships to sustain and grow its work. Domestic and family violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women in Australia, and Mary’s House is committed to breaking that cycle by providing safety, care and hope. Learn more or support at www.maryshouse.org.au.
