Walk for Respect 2026

The Rotary Clubs of Colac West and Colac invites our community to join us for our: "Walk for Respect" Say no to Domestic Violence.
This is a walk to raise awareness of domestic abuse and provide opportunities for our community to know how they can contribute to minimising the impact of domestic violence in our community. 

We’re asking community members to demonstrate their support for this important issue by encouraging their family and friends to create teams and walk together as a public show of unity against domestic violence and abuse in the Colac region. 

Our inaugural walk will take place on Saturday 24th October 2026 at Memorial Square from 10:30am until 12pm.

We will be hearing from influential guest speakers who will share their experiences and information on what just one person can do to help people affected by domestic abuse.

We are proud to announce that the 2026 Guest Speakers include:

• Gerard Barrow – Barrow Legal: Gerard will bring a legal perspective to the conversation around family violence.
• April Burton – The Otway Edit: April will challenge the behaviours we excuse, the warning signs we ignore and the silence that allows harm to continue.
• Jessica Brauer - Colac Area Health: Jessica will represent financial support and its role in helping people navigate difficult circumstances.
• Shelley Hoskins – Seniors Rights Victoria: Shelley will speak about elder abuse and why recognizing and repsonding to it matters.
• Jodie Hill - Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West: Jodie will contribute to the conversation about family violence prevention and creating safer communities. 

A free sausage sizzle with delicious sausages from Meatcrew and ice creams from Bulla will be at the finish line for the walkers. We hope to see a huge show of support for this inaugural event.