Local voices join national call for refugee permanency

THE Bellarine will step out in support of asylum seekers living in visa limbo next week when they join the Big Walk 4 Refugees, a national event calling for fairer treatment and permanent protection.

Now in its second year, the walk is bringing communities across the country together through the month of June in a virtual lap around Australia and to sites such as Nauru and Manus Island where the federal government maintains offshore detention facilities.

The local leg the Big Walk 4 Refugees will take place on June 21 in Queenscliff from 10am.

Attendees will first gather at the Queenscliff Memorial Gardens to hear from invited speakers, before walking a 4km circuit as a group to the Springs Beach foreshore and back.

The walk will be followed by a picnic in Citizens Park.

Queenscliff Rural Australians of Refugees spokesperson Sue Longmore said all were invited to attend the walk.

“We are walking to demand permanency for the up to 8,000 people who sought safe refuge in Australia almost 13 years ago.

“They have been part of our communities for all this time. They are our friends, neighbours or workmates.

“Permanent visas will provide them with the peace and security that everyone deserves.”

Attendees are encouraged to bring banners or posters and wear sturdy shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Registration is not required.

Queenscliff Memorial Gardens is at 58-62 Flinders Street, Queenscliff.

For more information, head to bigwalk4refugees.au