In 2024, Wuthering Heights of Mapleton (WHOM) raised $4200 for domestic violence charity, Speak Up Now - Stop Domestic & Family Violence. 

“Dressed in a dazzling array of red outfits, we gathered from near and far, and as one community, joining thousands of others around the world this month, sang and danced to Kate Bush music while learning to perform Kate Bush’s famous dance to her 1978 hit song. We were fabulous at the Nutbush, too,” said organiser Wendy Turton. 

WHOM’s lively entertainment program included an energy packed dance demonstration by students from ‘Cultivate Movement and Mindfulness’ with their instructor Karen Towne, our dance guru for the day. 

“Our goal was to raise awareness and much-needed funds to support victims of domestic violence while enriching and supporting community health,” said Wendy.  “This is all underpinned by Emily Bronte’s novel, Wuthering Heights which has a strong undercurrent of domestic violence as one of its main themes.”  

The day flowed splendidly thanks to songbird Michelle Bull, entertaining host and auctioneer, Bollinger Darling, guest speakers, and   MC Michele Gusman, without whose tireless work and steady approach the day would not have been the enormous success it has become.  

“We were treated to hunger-satisfying BBQ treats by the Blackall Range Lions, while delicious, sweet treats and coffee were served by happy families from the Mapleton School P&C,” said Wendy. 

Auction and raffle prizes were outstanding thanks to the generosity of many local businesses whose donations of goods or vouchers ranged from accommodation at Secrets on the Lake, Dance fitness classes, Rangebow Festival tickets, footwear from Elite Foot Care, Gentle Dental (Nambour) services, Woodsman Skincare, and a host of others. See more on the WHOM website and Facebook. 

This year the WHOM team chose to support local charity, the Maleny-based Speak Up Now because their work is: 

• Empowering our youth: They provide workshops that teach respectful relationships to students, fostering a culture of kindness and safety; 

• Supporting vulnerable adults: They offer resources and training to help seniors identify and avoid elder abuse; 

• Building a network of support: They train professionals such as hairdressers and barbers to recognise signs of domestic violence and connect victims with help; and 

• Spreading awareness: They distribute safety information cards and hold community forums with experts, keeping domestic violence prevention at the forefront of our minds. 

“The success of Speak Up Now lies in collaboration. They partner with local organisations, law enforcement and government agencies,” said Wendy. 

The organising team was buoyed with sponsorship and support from David Law (SCRC), Robert Skelton, Officeworks (Maroochydore) and our fabulous friends and family. 

Join in in 2025, contact us at info@wutheringheightsofmapleton.au or through our Facebook. 

Wuthering Heights of Mapleton – Red Dress Day is an annual event held at the Mapleton Lilyponds Park on the last Sunday of July, that being closest to pop singer Kate Bush’s birthday (July 30).