Blacktown City Council - Media Release - Family Fun Day Fights Violence

MEDIA RELEASE

27 November 2017

The Blacktown community united to prevent domestic violence at the Blacktown City White Ribbon Family Fun Day on Sunday.

More than 400 people gathered at Stanhope Leisure Centre for the event, organised by Blacktown City Council. 

Mayor of Blacktown City Stephen Bali MP said he was proud the community had come out in force to show their support for ending violence against women. 

“On average, one woman is killed every week in Australia as a result of domestic violence,” Mayor Bali said.

“In the City of Blacktown, there is an average of 40 reported incidents of family and domestic violence each week.

“These are shocking statistics that have a devastating impact the whole community.

“To break this chain of abuse, we as a society must stand up and say ‘enough is enough, we want this to stop’.

“By uniting as a community as we did yesterday, each one of us lends our voices to a chorus that cannot be ignored.

“We are sending a message that domestic violence has no place in our community.”

The fun day included free games, face painting, a jumping castle, rock climbing wall and live entertainment on stage.

Council’s White Ribbon garbage truck made an appearance, alongside trucks selling food and coffee.

There were also stalls where visitors could pick up small white ribbons to wear and learn more about domestic violence and the White Ribbon Campaign.

“The White Ribbon Campaign is a global movement working to end male violence against women and girls,” Mayor Bali said.

“As a White Ribbon accredited workplace, Blacktown City Council has made a pledge never to commit, excuse or remain silent about domestic violence. 

“We promise to protect our workers from abuse in the workplace and support them if they face abuse at home.

“Violence in any form is unacceptable and I ask all residents to consider gaining White Ribbon accreditation for their workplaces, and sign up to a program designed to prevent and protect people from abuse.”

Caption to come.

St Johns Ambulance officer Simone Bland poses with Dhruv Kakkad, 4, and his mum Vasvi Kakkad of Schofields.

Nine-year-old Ava Morrison (centre) with Senior Constables of the Quakers Hill Local Command, Kristina Trebar and Alana Woodbury.

Julia Micallef poses with son Jessie, 4.

Five-year-old Ava Manning of Stanhope Gardens is photographed by mum Monique on the jumping castle