9 Domestic violence is one of the most serious social issues affecting families and communities across Queensland. Public discussion, government campaigns, and media reporting have traditionally focused on violence committed by men against women. While violence against women remains a major and very real problem, there is another side of domestic violence that often receives far less attention — the growing number of male victims who suffer abuse in silence. Domestic violence is not defined by gender. It is defined by behaviour — behaviour that is controlling, threatening, manipulative, emotionally damaging, financially abusive, or physically violent. Abuse can occur in any relationship regardless of gender, age, sexuality, or cultural background. In Queensland, domestic and family violence laws recognise that anyone can be a victim. Men, women, children, same-sex partners, elderly parents, and other family members can all experience abuse within the home. Yet despite this recognition in law, social attitudes often make it difficult for male victims to come forward. Many men who experience domestic violence remain silent because they fear embarrassment, ridicule, or disbelief. Society has long expected men to appear strong, emotionally resilient, and physically capable of defending themselves. Because of these expectations, some people struggle to believe that a man could be intimidated, controlled, or assaulted by a partner. As a result, male victims may feel ashamed to seek help or report abuse to police and support services. While Queensland has made progress in expanding domestic violence awareness and services, many support systems have historically been designed primarily for female victims. This can leave men uncertain about where to seek help or whether services will take their experiences seriously. Some male victims report feeling isolated because there are fewer shelters, support groups, and public campaigns directed toward them. Acknowledging male victims does not reduce the seriousness of violence against women. Domestic violence is not a competition between genders, nor should support for one group come at the expense of another. Every victim deserves protection, compassion, and access to support services. Recognising male victims simply means recognising the reality that abuse can affect anyone. Breaking the silence surrounding male victims is an important step toward creating safer communities. Domestic violence should never be dismissed because of a person’s gender. Whether the victim is a woman or a man, abuse leaves lasting emotional, psychological, and physical scars. If you are experiencing domestic violence please feel free to reach out to us so that we can assist you. Hilton Hartley Lawyers - PH 56 10 80 60 See advert front cover - Hilton Hartley Lawyers - Domestic Violence This June, the annual The Doyles Art Award returns to Mudgeeraba, bringing with it an extraordinary level of national interest. Organisers have revealed that nearly 1,000 entries were received for the 2026 award — a remarkable figure that highlights both the prestige of the competition and the enduring appetite for traditional fine art in Australia. Held from 19–28 June, the finalist exhibition has become one of Queensland’s most anticipated cultural events, drawing artists, collectors and visitors from across the country. Best of all, entry to the exhibition is completely free, offering the public rare access to a significant national art prize without the barriers often associated with major gallery events. What makes The Doyles particularly unique is its grassroots foundation. The award is run by a dedicated team of volunteers and operates as a not-for-profit organisation, with a strong focus on supporting Australian artists and fostering community engagement through the arts. In an era where many cultural events struggle for funding and continuity, The Doyles continues to thrive through local support, sponsorship and sheer determination. The award’s major acquisitive prize of $20,000 ensures the winning artwork becomes part of the event’s legacy, while the total prize pool of $33,000 positions the exhibition among the country’s more substantial representational art prizes. Categories span landscape, figurative, still life, junior and all-ability sections, reflecting the inclusive ethos the event has become known for. Importantly, the exhibition is not simply about competition. The Doyles Art Award Hundreds of artworks will be available for purchase throughout the event, giving visitors the opportunity to support working Australian artists directly and perhaps discover the next major name in contemporary representational art. This year’s judging panel is expected to once again bring together respected voices from the Australian arts sector, continuing the award’s reputation for credibility and artistic integrity. For many visitors, however, the real appeal lies beyond the prizes. The exhibition has become a celebration of artistic craftsmanship, storytelling and community spirit — all set against the backdrop of the historic Gold Coast hinterland village of Mudgeeraba. At a time when regional arts events are increasingly important to Australia’s cultural identity, The Doyles stands as a reminder that world-class artistic experiences do not belong solely to capital cities. Sometimes, they happen in small villages powered by volunteers, passion and a deep belief in the value of art.
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