Shark Cage® DFV program to support Maleny women

A new eight-week Shark Cage® program will be offered in Maleny later this year, giving women in the hinterland access to a specialised, trauma-informed group for those who have experienced domestic and family violence or sexual assault.

The free program, delivered by Speak Up Now – Stop Domestic & Family Violence, will run from September 11 to October 30, 2026, at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre.

Participants will explore how to recognise unsafe behaviours, understand the qualities of respectful relationships, strengthen personal boundaries and rebuild confidence and self-worth.

The initiative has been supported by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council, which funded facilitator training for two local volunteers.

The program will be delivered entirely by volunteers, with trained facilitators Christine and Val donating their time to ensure women can access support close to home.

Speak Up Now spokesperson Val France said the group wanted to make sure hinterland women had a local option.

“Not everyone can travel to the coast for group programs – transport, cost, and even the size of bigger groups can make it hard for women to take part,” she said.

“Our focus is always on strengthening community understanding of domestic and family violence, but just as importantly, we want women in our own towns to have a pathway to healing and empowerment when they’re ready.”

Women aged 18 and over who have experienced domestic and family violence or sexual assault must complete a phone intake and face-to-face intake before they can be accepted into the program.

Contact Christine on 0493 640 423 for more information.

Val France wants women to have a pathway to healing and empowerment when they’re ready.