LAST Thursday saw the 10th anniversary of the Midland March That Matters, the Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network community event instrumental in raising awareness and support for those affected by family and domestic violence.

From its beginnings as a small stall in the Midland Gate shopping centre in 2012, to a full-scale march led by the WA Police Pipe Band, the annual event held during the 16 Days in WA has grown into one of WA’s biggest domestic violence awareness events.

The significant milestone marked a decade of solidarity and determination in their collective stance to spread the strong message that there is no excuse for abuse.

Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network chair Kristy Darnborough, who is also the Relationships Australia WA family and domestic violence services manager, said the Midland March That Matters acted as a message of hope and unity in our community.

“We are pleased to commemorate this milestone and reflect on the progress we’ve made in raising awareness about family and domestic violence in our community,’’ she said.

“But our work is far from over – we must continue to amplify the message of healing and hope for survivors and unite in our efforts to prevent and combat this ongoing issue.”

The lineup of guest speakers included Early Childhood Education, Child Protection, Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence and Community Services Minister Sabine Winton, City of Swan Mayor Tanya Richardson, a family and domestic violence survivor, detective Matt Bethune and Moorditj Noongar Community College representatives.