APRIL 7, 2015 \ MACEDONRANGES.STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
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Family violence booted Residents are being urged to join a Riddell District Football League club’s public stand against family violence. Ahead of a major event on April 17, Macedon Football Club is encouraging people to promise to never turn a blind eye to violence against women and children. Former Australian of the year and Mount Macedon resident Athol Guy will interview this year’s receiver of the same honour, domestic violence campaigner Rosie Batty, at Macedon’s Jubilee Hall from 7pm. Ms Batty will also be made the club’s number one ticketholder. Margaret Singe, of Victoria Police’s Bendigo region family violence unit, will also speak. Club president Terry Kernan said family violence was a scourge that had to be stopped. Data released by the Crime Statistics Agency late last month revealed that, on average, more than one family incident was reported in the Macedon Ranges every day in 2014. A total of 388 family incidents were recorded in the area, compared with 413 in 2013. Only 194 reports were received in 2010. ‘‘Family violence of any kind is absolutely unacceptable,’’ Kernan said. ‘‘We need the community to come with us on this. We have to make sure as a society that it’s never tolerated.’’ Kernan said footballers and netballers had been quick to support the event, part of a broader plan to promote a positive, community-focused culture. The club is also considering launching a domestic violence education program. Kernan said players who had never Australia’s No#1-Metro Guest Experience
expressed a particular interest in social justice had been outspoken in their approval of the Jubilee Hall anti-violence event. Money raised will be donated to the Luke Batty Foundation. Tickets, covering a two-course meal and drinks, cost $95. Macedon Ranges council is also encouraging people to join the conversation about ending family violence.
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We need the community to come with us - Terry Kernan
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A fibreglass artwork, The Elephant in the Room, will be displayed at the football club event and will also be at local libraries from this month. The artwork is on display in Romsey until April 14. White Ribbon ambassador Cr John Connor urged people to see the work and learn more about the issue. ‘‘All women have the right to safe and respectful relationships and to live free from violence,’’ Cr Connor said. ‘‘Everyone has a role to play in preventing violence against women and developing a culture of respect and equity.’’ The council recently endorsed a statement of commitment for the prevention of violence against women. Mayor Jennifer Anderson said it was the first commitment of its kind by the council. ‘‘This … sets out how we will work to prevent violence against women and is our local contribution towards achieving the national vision of Australian women and children living free from violence in safe communities,’’ she said. Family Violence Response Centre: 1800 015 188
(Shawn Smits)
By Matt Crossman
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