Canning community joins the Purple Road journey

The City of Canning is proud to announce its participation in the Purple Road elder abuse awareness campaign.

The Purple Road is an awareness-raising campaign encouraging people to share their stories for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Each year, the campaign symbolically captures hundreds of elder abuse stories through the creation of purple ‘roads’ – textile artworks symbolising and bringing together stories around the issue of elder abuse.

On 15 June each year, which is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), all sections of the Purple Road join together (purple is the symbolic colour of WEAAD).

As part of the initiative, the City will present three community roads which will bring the total length of purple road in Western Australia to 100 metres.

In what is sure to be a tremendous source of pride for our community, the road artwork created by the Beananging Kwuurt Institute has been selected to be displayed at Parliament House from June 4 to June 14, 2024, showcasing a range of stories of hope through creative art mediums.

Mayor Hall expressed his enthusiasm about the art piece, stating, "The Purple Road is not just an artwork, but a powerful symbol of our community’s commitment to raising awareness about elder abuse.”

“We are honoured to showcase Beananging Kwuurt Institute’s contribution at Parliament House, where it will serve as a testament to the support and creativity in our community." said Mayor Hall.
Beananging Kwuurt Institute, located on the site of the old Sister Kate’s Children’s Home, holds deep cultural significance, particularly for members of the Stolen Generation. Aboriginal artist Fiona Augustsson and Artist in Residence Lesley Murray collaborated with members to produce this masterpiece.

“Although this was led by Aboriginal artists, it brought together people of all ages and races, working in harmony to achieve the outcome. From young children to elders and from diverse backgrounds, everyone demonstrated goodwill, and acted in the spirit of reconciliation. We are so proud to be a part of this project” said spokesperson Pauline from Beananging Kwuurt Institute.

The Purple Road initiative is supported by the Older People’s Rights Service and the Elder Abuse Peer Education Scheme, both funded by the Department of Communities, which provide support for victims experiencing elder abuse and educate seniors about their rights.

According to the Department of Communities, elder abuse affects 1 in 6 older Western Australians and can take many forms.
A collaborative stretch of the Purple Road artwork is currently on display at Riverton Library from June 8 to June 27. The City expresses gratitude to the Beananging Kwuurt Institute, Rostrata Craft Group, and local volunteers for their efforts.

To commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the City of Canning will host a free informative session on Thursday, June 13, from 9:30 to 10:30 am at Riverton Library. The session will educate attendees about the importance of having a power of attorney and guardianship in place.

For more information about elder abuse and where to get support, visit www.wa.gov.au/government/document-collections/elder-abuse-support-services-and-resources