White Ribbon Day is held on November 24 every year and this year, a ‘sausage sizzle’ was held in the park next to the post office in Wallendoon Street in Cootamundra to raise awareness of the ongoing battle against domestic violence..
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Jayne Halls from Mission Australia has organised the day for the last few years and although the event is usually a popular one, this year the numbers were very low.
“Last year we had such a big event, and we had lots of people attend, but this year we had a smaller event and the number of people attending was very low. It was quite disappointing,” Ms Halls said.
“We have always been supported by the Police, and they did not let us down this year, but with the re-organisation of the LAC, we are concerned that we may even lose our violence liaison officer. It’s a worry.”
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank those who helped us out on the day, including FACS, Intereach and Housing NSW. Thanks guys, you did a great job,” Ms Halls said.
Mission Australia is a non-denominational Christian charity that has been helping vulnerable Australians move towards independence for more than 155 years.
Programs that run from the Cootamundra office include case programs for children, youths and family and parenting.
They have specialist counselors in Adolescent issues come from Wagga on a regular basis.
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke attended the event and has committed to assisting Ms Halls and Mission Australia support White Ribbon Day in 2018.
“It is vital that all our communities, large and small stand up and speak out against violence against women and children,” Ms Cooke said.
“This is such an important issue and we need more White Ribbon events organised across the electorate and I will see that this becomes a significant focus in the Cootamundra electorate.”
“I would like to say what a wonderful advocate Ms Halls is for White Ribbon Day, she works tirelessly to campaign against domestic violence. She makes it easy for me to want to be a part of the fight,” Ms Cooke said.
“There are many forms of domestic violence, especially in this technological age. and it cannot be tolerated.”
“I would expect there to be strong support from the men in our community. I expect them to stand up and speak out against domestic violence toward women and children in our electorate.”
Families needing support may contact Mission Australia in Cooper Street, Cootamundra, by either dropping in or by phoning 6942 8001.
