Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Committee has released a calendar of free local events and activities for the community to get involved in the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence from November 25 through to December 10.
In the last financial year there were 2,225 reported incidents of Family Violence in the Bendigo area alone. This is an average of six a day, which is alarming and needs to end.
The calendar of events provides a range of opportunities for the community to get involved in a range of local initiatives and show their support.
There are a range of face to face activities this year including a launch event on Friday November 25 in the Conservatory Gardens, an elder abuse forum, an event with Assistant Commissioner for Family Violence, Lauren Callaway, a community walk around Lake Weeroona, an information session on the Picture Change Diversity Image Library Guide and the Heathcote Community Smiles Day. In addition, there is a number of virtual events including a local virtual walk platform, a webinar with Matt Brown and a range of community groups showcasing their support across the16 days.
Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Committee Chair Margaret Singe said the committee has been operating since 2008 but believes that this year's events and activities are some of the best yet and hopes the community will get involved and show their support.
"The 16 Days of Activism provides an opportunity for community to come together, hear from specialist in this field and to learn the issues faced by many," Ms Singe said.
"This year we have a lot more face to face opportunities and ask community members to get behind them and show their support. We encourage community members to get a copy of the calendar of events and register for all face to face activities. All events are free of charge so there is no barrier for supporting this cause.
"We want to see our community participating and encourage them to share images of themselves getting involved to the Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Facebook page. It could be an image of you wearing orange, taking one of the orange flowers that the Yarn Bombers have created or dropping a pin on the virtual walk page."
If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for advice or support.
You will find the full calendar of events at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/Services/Community-and-Care/Gender-Equity and any updates on Facebook under Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence.
