Red Bench Project, Ferny Grove State High School QLD

The Challenge
The Red Bench Project, led by the Red Rose Foundation, introduces permanent red benches into public spaces to raise awareness of domestic and family violence. Local State Member Mark Furner observed that while red benches existed in community spaces, none had been introduced into schools. 

Recognising the influence schools have in shaping attitudes and behaviours, he approached Ferny Grove State High School leadership to explore installing a red bench on campus. The objective was to place a permanent, visible reminder of domestic and family violence within the school environment, helping to prompt awareness and discussion through everyday presence.

The bench needed to perform reliably within a high-use school environment, while retaining its bold red finish and clear visual identity over time. Key considerations included:

• Long-term structural durability

• Low-maintenance materials and finishes

• Resistance to corrosion, UV and weather exposure

• Colour stability to maintain the integrity of the Red Bench identity

The Solution

GX Outdoors worked in collaboration with Mark Furner’s office to help realise the Red Bench Project on campus. The project aligns with GX Outdoors’ purpose of creating public infrastructure that enriches lives - using well-considered design and durable manufacturing to support positive community outcomes.

An Integra Ex Park Seat powder-coated in Flame Red from GX Outdoors’ complete park furniture range was selected as the permanent bench. Designed and manufactured in Bundaberg from recyclable aluminium and backed by a 20-year warranty, the seat provides a robust, low-maintenance solution suited to long-term use in a school environment. It's simple, proven form supports efficient installation while ensuring the Red Bench remains a lasting, visible element within the school landscape. See the full Park Seat range below:

Since its installation, the bench has prompted curiosity and conversation among students, helping to normalise discussion around domestic and family violence and reinforcing that support is available. By embedding awareness into permanent infrastructure, the project demonstrates how well-considered public furniture can play an active role in shaping behaviour, supporting education and strengthening community wellbeing. 

“When the bench was installed, we got lots of questions about what is this bench doing here? … so it definitely started a lot of conversations.”

— Maddie Thomas, 2025 School Captain Ferny Grove State High School

Hear directly from Mark Furner MP and Ferny Grove State High School Captain Maddie Thomas about the impact of the Red Bench Project on their school campus in the video below.