Community urged to attend Beyond Age event and stand against mistreatment of seniors
Ipswich residents are being urged to wear purple and attend a free community event on Monday, June 16 to mark World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and help end the mistreatment of older people.
The Beyond Age event, supported by the Queensland Police Service, STAR Community Services, and several advocacy groups, will take place at the Ipswich Sports Club, 1A Samford Road, Leichhardt from 10am to 12pm, with free morning tea provided.
Senior Constable Kerrin Sheedy told West Bremer Radio during the weekly Crime Watch segment that elder abuse often remains hidden.
“It’s committed by people in a relationship of trust—sons, daughters, spouses, grandchildren—and it can be emotional, financial, psychological, or physical,” she said.
“This event gives us the opportunity to speak up and stand united against such abuse.”
Featured guest speakers include:
- Wendy Bourne, MP for Ipswich West
- STAR Community Services
- LiveUp
- UnitingCare’s Elder Abuse Prevention Unit
- Queensland Police Service
The event will be followed by a Queensland Parliament public hearing from 1pm to 3pm, where locals are invited to share personal experiences or insights into elder abuse. The feedback will help shape future policy and protections for seniors.
Free bookings are essential. To attend, call STAR Community Services on (07) 3821 6699 or email marketing@starct.org.au.
If you or someone you know is experiencing elder abuse, call the Elder Abuse Helpline on 1300 651 192. For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/stop-elder-abuse.
Senior Constable Sheedy also encouraged the public to visit the MyPolice Ipswich blog or contact the Ipswich District Crime Prevention Unit on 3817 1351 for further support.
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