Reclaim the Night is a community partnership event led by the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD), Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, TAFE NSW, NSW Police and Headspace. The March aims to draw together people with different backgrounds and experiences to raise awareness of the right that all people have to feel safe in their community.

MNCLHD Domestic Violence Prevention Educator Renee Bell said the event provided an opportunity for community members to take a stance against violence, in particular violence against women.

“We all have the right to feel safe at night, no matter where we are, what we are wearing or if we are walking on our own,” Ms Bell said.

“We hope that by bringing lots of people together and raising awareness of the issue of violence in our community, we will help to prevent future violence.”

A range of local craft and community groups have donated their time to knit, crochet and sew almost 100 pussycat hats, which will be available at the event for a donation, with proceeds going to Headspace.

“The pussycat hat is a symbol of solidarity for women’s rights, so we felt they would be an appropriate way for March participants to demonstrate their support,” Ms Bell said.

The Reclaim the Night event will include live music and a free barbecue in the Hay St Forecourt (in front of the Glasshouse) from 6pm.

The march will start at approximately 7pm and will follow a short loop around the streets of the Port Macquarie CBD.

There will be lanterns available to use on the march.