Bravehearts lessons at St Therese

Last week a local school took part in Bravehearts’ White Balloon Day to stand against child sexual assault.

St Therese Primary School Torquay helped raise approximately $4,000 at their fundraiser on Friday September 6.

As well as a there being a sausage sizzle, they held a silent auction had a range of valuables that had been donated from the community.

Youth resource officer at the Torquay Police Cathy Hastey, and Torquay paramedic and Bravehearts volunteer David Watson both spoke at the event.

Mr Watson said Bravehearts was a not-for-profit charity that serves a vital role in child education.

“Bravehearts is one of the new companies that is out there educating primary and kindergarten age kids in the prevention of child sexual assault.”

Both Mr Watson and Officer Hastey noted the internet and heightened connectivity of the world makes children more vulnerable.

Officer Hastey named some ways the parents could keep their children safer online.

These included some contracts parents and children can sign at thinkuknow.org.au/parents-portal to help give families a clearer idea of how they can be safe online while still enjoying their freedom.

She also said that to have content removed from social media people should visit esafety.gov.au.

Mr Watson the noted alarming frequency of child sexual assault in Australia, stating that one in five Australian’s will be sexually assaulted by the time they turn 18.

Child sexual assault can have long term effects that include alcohol and substance abuse, suicidal ideation and post-traumatic stress.

Last year the school raised over $2,000 for Bravehearts charity.

To report information on online predatory behaviours, phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

To learn more about the charity visit bravehearts.org.au.