A Lifeline For Those In Crisis

Five women have already lost their lives to domestic violence in Australia this year. Five lives brutally cut short, leaving behind families shattered by grief. And it’s only January.

For survivors in Mackay, Broken Ballerina Inc. has become their lifeline, often stepping in when no one else will. Led by Jules and Pete Thompson, this grassroots charity operates 24/7, helping women, men, and children escape unimaginable circumstances. They provide counselling, courtroom advocacy, and escape bags filled with financial and practical essentials for those fleeing abuse. Yet, despite the growing demand for their services, the charity receives no government funding.

Since the start of the year, Broken Ballerina has already assisted 39 people and distributed five escape bags, each containing vital items like a $500 Visa card for emergency expenses.

Jules recalls a recent case: “Police called us for help with a woman whose ex-partner had drained their joint account. She couldn’t even afford back-to-school supplies for her kids.

“That’s when we stepped in with an escape bag to give her a fighting chance.”

The charity also stands out for its inclusivity, helping survivors who are often overlooked by other services. Jules shared the story of a man who reached out after being turned away elsewhere.

“He asked if we would help him because he wasn’t a woman. Of course, we said yes. We gave him emergency accommodation and food, ensuring he didn’t have to face this alone.”

But as the need for their services grows, so does the strain on their resources.

“We rely entirely on community support,” Jules explained.

“We don’t receive a single dollar in government funding. We’ve had organisations use our name to fundraise and not donate the money, which is devastating because we need every bit of help we can get to save lives.”

The charity is urging the community to rally behind them by becoming “Beacons of Hope Saviours” with monthly donations. Without this support, the life-changing work of Broken Ballerina Inc hangs in the balance.

One of the year’s most poignant events will be the Candle Lighting Ceremony on May 24, held at Harbour Beach. This harrowing tribute will include 96 fuchsia crosses for women, blue crosses for men, and white crosses for children lost to family violence.

“We’re hoping to work with Mackay’s Men’s Shed to create the crosses,” Jules said. “Not only would this help us, but it would also support another wonderful not-for-profit organisation.”

Broken Ballerina Inc isn’t just a charity—it’s a lifeline. For those facing their darkest moments, Jules and Pete are often their only hope. But they can’t do it alone.

With your support, they can continue to save lives, offer hope, and fight for a future free from domestic violence.

SAVE THE DATE

   • Saturday, 24th May 2025
4th Candle Lighting Ceremony at Harbour Beach.
A powerful tribute featuring crosses for women, men, and children lost to domestic and family violence.
   • Friday, 1st August 2025
2nd Annual BBI & AGIS Charity Golf Day.
A day of camaraderie and fundraising on the green, combining fun with purpose to help sustain this vital charity.
   • Saturday, 18th October 2025
5th Be Bold, Be Brave, Be Beautiful Charity Ball.
A glamorous evening celebrating resilience and courage while raising funds for survivors of domestic violence.

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This year’s candle lighting ceremony will be held at Harbour Beach and will include pink, blue and white crosses representing the women, men and children lost to domestic and family violence in 2024. Photo supplied

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