HUNDREDS of people gathered at Juniper Gardens for this year’s Midland March That Matters, bringing together Elders, young people, state and federal government representatives, service providers, business leaders and members of the wider community in a powerful show of unity and action.

The December 5 event filled the entire Juniper Gardens precinct, with more than 20 stalls offering support services, information and free activities.

A strong focus was placed on enhancing community engagement, inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring the day was welcoming for people of all ages.

Crowd favourites included the WA Police Pipe Band, Swan Rotary’s sausage sizzle, and a moving performance by the Moorditj Noongar Community College school choir.

Thanks to small grants and generous donations, 200 free ice creams were distributed, while face painting proved especially popular with children and young families.

Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network chair Angie Perkins said the sense of connection throughout the day was overwhelming.

“I was genuinely blown away by the deep sense of connection and hope throughout the day,” she said.

The event opened with a Welcome to Country by Noongar Elder Di Ryder, who welcomed attendees with “kindness, wisdom and honesty,” setting a respectful and reflective tone for the day.

Several speakers shared their lived experiences and local solutions, with one of the most powerful moments coming from 12-year-old Madie, who bravely shared her perspective as a child, supported by her pop and her mother Alison Scott.

“What touched me the most was hearing from Madie,” Ms Perkins said.

“Her words were raw, honest and authentic, and they will stay with many of us for a long time.”

Ms Perkins said the Midland March That Matters was also deeply connected to the history and growth of the Swan Family and Domestic Violence Network.

“This network grew out of the Midland March That Matters events and has brought together City of Swan-based family and domestic violence services since 2013,” she said.

“What began as a small stall is now one of the largest grassroots 16 Days of Activism events in Western Australia.

“We work together to identify and implement advocacy priorities, create warm referral pathways, build partnerships, raise awareness, and deliver education and community events across the City of Swan.”

She acknowledged that the success of the march relies heavily on the people behind the scenes.

“The Midland March That Matters is only possible because of a dedicated committee and the many volunteers, partners and community members who give their time, energy and passion to this event.”

Ms Perkins said the event reinforced the importance of community-led action in preventing family and domestic violence.

“Every single day, we must move forward with courage, conviction and consistency to end family and domestic violence - a preventable and devastating issue in this country,” she said.

“We must place our confidence in dedicated advocates, skilled leaders and those ready to guide our communities toward meaningful, lasting reform.

“Every one of us has the power to help end family and domestic violence, because in our community, there is and never will be an excuse for abuse.”

Any readers experiencing domestic or family violence may seek help by contacting 1800 737 732.