Group ready for a big 16 days

LATE November will once again see the global 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence campaign take a local flavour.

Regional activities for the event, which aims to bring attention to, and action on, gender-based violence is again being run by the Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Committee.

Following a launch event on 25 November, there’ll be a range of forums, information sessions and community get togethers as part of the more than two-weeks of events.

Chair of the Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Committee, Margaret Singe, said the 2022 schedule was one of the best in the 15 years the group has been organising them.

“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,” she 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.”

According to Greater Bendigo Against Family Violence Committee numbers, an average of six incidents of family violence were reported per day last financial year.

For a full list of events as part of the local 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence campaign visit bit.ly/3Ess2i1 or the committee’s Facebook page.

If you or someone you know is experiencing violence, call 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for advice or support.