MOUNT Gambier residents took a stand against domestic violence while supporting survivors at last week’s annual White Ribbon Day breakfast.
Community members, service providers and emergency services gathered at Frew Park on Friday morning for a free breakfast and to raise the profile of the important movement.
Around 100 people attended the event over two hours, with Limestone Coast Family Violence Action Group chair Sonya Mezinec attributing the increase in numbers to greater awareness and promotion.
“We had a really good crowd at the White Ribbon breakfast and every year there seems to be more and more people attending,” she said.
“I think the fact it is talked about a lot more and the issue is generally in the press with a lot of news reporting about domestic violence has really raised the White Ribbon profile.”
The event coincided with the family violence action group’s launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign.
The global crusade seeks to galvanise action to end violence against women across the world.
After the breakfast, men and women gathered at The Rail to participate in the giant “no” shout event before Mount Gambier North Primary School’s special White Ribbon Day-themed assembly.
The campaign continued with Monday’s official launch of the Clothesline Project – an art installation by domestic violence survivors – and widespread release of the family safety card.
Morning teas will be held in Naracoorte and Millicent over the coming weeks to highlight the issue of gender-based violence, as well as draw attention to support services in the area.
On December 3, staff from Centacare South East will come together for a shared lunch to recognise the importance of the prevention of violence.
