Annual event shows community solidarity – ‘Yes’ to safety and hope, and ‘No’ to domestic and family violence
More than 1,500 people are expected to unite for the annual Mary’s House Walk on Sydney’s Lower North Shore on Sunday 25 October, saying ‘no’ to domestic and family violence and ‘yes’ to safety and hope.
Community groups and individuals including Rotary Clubs, school students, HMAS Waterhen personnel, NSW SES volunteers, RSL members, corporate teams, local businesses and families will walk in support of Mary’s House Services, a northern suburbs’ specialist domestic and family violence service.
The walk coincides with a significant milestone as Mary’s House Services celebrates ten years of supporting women and children impacted by domestic and family violence.
Over the past decade, the organisation has provided more than 20,000 safe room nights of refuge accommodation and, in the past financial year alone, supported more than 460 women and their children through its refuge, social work, housing and community support programs.
Demand for services continues to rise amid Australia’s domestic and family violence crisis. NSW Police receive a domestic and family violence report every three minutes, although experts acknowledge many incidents go unreported.
“The community is the reason we have been able to provide so much support over the last 10 years, and they will be back again this year to show their care and belief in everyone’s right to live in safety,” said Mary’s House Services CEO, Yvette Vignando.
“Together, we’re demonstrating our determination to help more women and children live free from abuse and violence, while recognising that domestic and family violence affects all demographics and communities.”
The event raises vital funds for Mary’s House Services and increases awareness that specialist support is available locally.
The 8.8-kilometre walk begins at St Leonards Park and follows Sydney Harbour through Wollstonecraft, Waverton, Balls Head and Lavender Bay before returning to North Sydney.
Participants will enjoy a family-friendly morning featuring:
- Complimentary sausage sizzle courtesy of Rydges North Sydney and local Rotary Clubs
- Live entertainment from the NSW Police Band
- Face painting for children
- Warm-up activities led by HMAS Waterhen physical training instructors
- North Sydney Bears players and Barney the Bear mascot
Mary’s House Services acknowledges the ongoing support of partners including the Mater Hospital, Ord Minnett, Holding Redlich, and many corporate and community organisations that walk alongside the service each year.
Early Bird registrations are now open. Adult registration is $75 and participation is free for students under 18.
Registration is online at Mary’s House Services Walk
Mary’s House Services is inviting philanthropic individuals, businesses and community organisations to become Matching Donors. By matching funds raised through the Walk, donors can double the impact of community contributions and help provide greater safety, hope and healing for women and children escaping domestic and family violence.
Mary’s House Walk
📅 Sunday 25 October 2026
📍 St Leonards Park, Miller Street, North Sydney
⏰ Registration from 8.15 am
