The Coffs Coast community is being encouraged to stand together against domestic violence this White Ribbon Day, with an event this Saturday at the Coffs Harbour Surf Club from 11am to 1pm.
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The event is coordinated by the Coffs Coast Committee Against Domestic and Family Violence, a partnership between Coffs Harbour City Council, Warrina Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Service and Mid North Coast Local Health District, and aims to support the next generation of young men as they take an oath against men’s violence against women in our community.
Sixty young men are expected to take the White Ribbon oath at the event, pledging to never commit violence towards women.
Leading up to White Ribbon Day, students from Coffs Harbour High School, John Paul College and Toormina High School have completed workshops presented by the Engage 2 Change Mid North Coast Community Education Team. The Engage 2 Change Team will also deliver a workshop to members of the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club on the morning of the White Ribbon Day event.
Step Up Mate Program Coordinator Heath Addison said he welcomed as many members of the community as possible to come to the event and support the young men in their declaration.
“Having the community show their support to the young men who are taking the oath on the day would be so valuable,” Mr Addison said.
The event will include a Welcome to Country by Troy Robinson and the Gumbaynggirr dance troupe to open the day, a presentation from White Ribbon Ambassador Ian Robinson on his experience of walking the Larapinta Trail ‘Trek for Respect’, and a speech from Greens NSW Spokesperson for Women Mehreen Faruqi regarding the issue of gendered violence within the community.
NSW Police Detective Inspector Darren Jameson will also the highlight innovative strategies being implemented by the Local Area Command to tackle domestic and family violence, and local service displays will offer information to both men and women. A variety of activities will be on offer and a fundraising sausage sizzle provided by the local nippers club.
For more information about the event, please contact Heath Addison on 0437 737 818.