QAL has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling domestic and family violence (DFV), pledging continued support to the Coordinated Community Response to Domestic and Family Violence (CCRDFV) – a local non-profit organisation that shares a vision for a safer Gladstone community.
As part of the annual DFV awareness campaign in May, QAL team members raised over $2,700 through raffles and purple merchandise sales, and donated 56 mobile phones to victims via the DV Safe Phone program.
QAL General Manager, Trent Scherer, said the team’s support has grown significantly since last year.
“The work we must do together as a community to curb DFV is never finished,” Trent said.
“In addition to donating proceeds from our onsite activities, QAL is pleased to increase our total funding to $5,000 towards the CCRDFV.”
CCRDFV Chairperson, Vicki Dredge, said 338 applications for aggrieved protection were made in April 2024-25 alone, with Gladstone recording some of the highest prevalence in the state, according to Queensland Courts’ DFV statistics.
“Our organisation is dedicated to providing a coordinated response to those affected by domestic and family violence and to promoting an abuse-free community,” Vicki said.
“The funding provided by QAL helps us continue supporting Gladstone through education, awareness events, strategic partnerships with support services and agencies, and by providing direct support to victims and their families.”
The Hon. Glenn Butcher collected the donated phones on behalf of Gladstone’s localised DV Safe Phone program.
“These devices will be recycled and redistributed to victims of domestic violence who don’t have access to a mobile phone, ensuring they have a vital lifeline to safety, support and emergency services when they need it most,” said Mr Butcher.
Highlighting the critical role workplaces play in driving cultural change, Trent said, “As the single biggest employer in town, we’ve got an obligation to ensure we eradicate domestic violence from our communities.
“I had the opportunity to represent QAL at the Remembrance Day Service and, just to have a day to remember people who have died at the hands of their partners, is a horrific thing for the community.
“Our commitment to eradicating domestic and family violence begins with education, awareness, and action.
“By standing together, we can create workplaces and communities where respect and safety are non-negotiable. It’s not just a responsibility—it’s a moral imperative.”
Concluding its month of DFV awareness initiatives, QAL partnered with The Outback Mind Foundation to screen a powerful documentary for team members.
The film offers a raw and hopeful perspective on change and accountability, exploring the transformative journeys of men who have overcome a history of violence against family members.
“This work doesn’t begin and end with a campaign or a single event—it’s something we must commit to every day,” said Trent.
“Creating a culture of respect and safety takes ongoing effort, and at QAL, we’re dedicated to making that part of how we operate, every single day.”
Pictured: (L-R) QAL Construction Supervisor Tanya Whitely and Human Resources Advisor Caitlin Mann hand over a $5,000 cheque, including funds raised by team members, to CCRDFV Chairperson Vicki Dredge and Volunteers Linda and Glenn Watson.
Pictured: (L-R) QAL Systems Advisor Gabriela Beatson, Gladstone MP Glenn Butcher and General Manager Trent Scherer will donate upcycled phones to victims of domestic and family violence through the DV Safe Phone program.
If this information has raised any concerns, please seek support anytime by contacting these services:
- DVConnect Womensline on 1800 811 811
- DVConnect Mensline on 1800 600 636
- Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
- Elder Abuse Helpline 1300 651 192
- www.qld.gov.au/makethecall
