Epic Hair Designs, led by founder Brendon Mann and his partner Brendan Smith, are once again supporting survivors of domestic violence through the Epic Walk for DV, within their role as an ambassador for Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ). The walk will take place on March 30, 2025, building on a legacy that’s in its fourth year and has raised over $800,000 through past walks, galas and charity events, including two Epic Galas hosted by the salon brand.
The initiative and Epic Hair Designs’ involvement showcases the vital role that hairdressers can play in the fight against domestic violence, in trusted, close relationships they share with clients. Hairdressers can be one of the first points of disclosure for those experiencing domestic violence, in their role as confidants.
“This isn’t just a walk—it’s a movement,” Brendon shared. “In the salon industry, we witness firsthand the power of conversation. Women open up to their hairdressers in a way they might not with anyone else. We have a responsibility to educate ourselves, support them, and help them access resources like WLSQ.”
Epic Hair Design has done its part to help across its 16 salons through Brisbane and the Gold Coast, including fundraising programs and a culture dedicated to women’s empowerment, safety, and education. This year expands that impact, by growing the walk beyond Brisbane, with new walks taking place in regional Queensland, including the Whitsundays, that have community, business and council support. The brand will further expand this initiative to the Gold Coast in 2026.
“Our mission is to take this walk across the state because domestic violence is not just a city issue—it’s a Queensland issue,” Brendon shared. “We’re proud to have support from business leaders and organisations like Kao, L’Oréal, Haircare Australia, Comfortel and Zenoti, who have donated generously towards the walk.”
Funds from the walk go towards WLSQ, which provides free legal assistance to women experiencing domestic violence. This year will specifically support their Financial Abuse Prevention Unit, which helps women experiencing economic control and financial coercion.
Brendon is calling on the hairdressing community to contribute to this cause, with the hope that 2000 people join the walk this year. The event includes a group warm-up, led by a local fitness professional, followed by a welcome address from key supporters, including community leaders, business figures and domestic violence advocates. The scenic walk ends with a community barbecue and further education thanks to WLSQ. The walk is an opportunity for important conversations and connection for supporters and survivors.
Salons can get involved by signing up for the walk, creating a salon team including clients, donating to or fundraising for the cause and spreading awareness about this important initiative.
“There’s a real opportunity for our industry to lead the way in raising awareness and showing support for survivors,” Brendon said. “This is an issue that touches so many of our clients, colleagues, and communities. By walking, fundraising, or even just spreading the message, we can all make a difference.”
“I would love to see the hairdressing industry unite for this cause. The conversations we have in the salon can change lives. By supporting this walk, we can turn those conversations into action.”
For more information or to register visit www.epicwalkfordv.com.au
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