IT was an emotional end to 13 years of schooling for MacKillop Senior College’s year 12 graduates.
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On Friday, the senior legal studies class, on behalf of their graduating year, presented more than $10,800 to local domestic and family violence support services.
The money raised will go toward providing Hastings women wanting to exit a violent relationships immediate access to specialised legal services and advice.
Teacher Nicole Bailey enlisted the support of the Port Macquarie Domestic and Family Violence Support Service (DFVSS) who will distribute the funds to their clients. Flintoff Lawyers has also offered its support.
It is an act of generosity filled with integrity and spirit, according to DFVSS service delivery manager, Kylie Dowse.
“Our service supports more than 1000 women every year. We salute these students for their spirit and integrity,” she said.
Our service supports more than 1000 women every year. We salute these students for their spirit and integrity.
- Kylie Dowse
Sandra Sheridan, coordinator of the Mid Coast Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service, said the funding will enable local women to access the right advice.
“We recognise how important it is for women to be able access the right legal advice and make the right choices.”
On presenting the funds, students handed the responsibility to help end the scourge of violence against women and children to their younger peers.
Student Courtney Irwin said her class group was so affected by the enormity of the epidemic of domestic violence, the establishment of a legal fund for Hastings women is a small action on their behalf to make a long-term difference.
“They are horrifying statistics that one in three women will experience domestic violence at some point in their lives.
“These figures don’t discriminate – rich or poor, young or old – they are real women and real tragedies,” Courtney said.
Noah Smith said their goal to raise $5000 in five weeks was blown out of the water by an overwhelming show of support by the community and local business including Essential Energy.
Essential Energy chief executive officer, John Cleland, said the organisation recognises that domestic violence is a significant social issue that impacts local communities Australia-wide and commends MacKillop Senior College’s initiative to establish a Legal Justice Fund to help support victims.
“Our business was pleased to be able to contribute to the school’s fundraising efforts by holding a series of barbecues in Port Macquarie which were generously supported by employees,” Mr Cleland said.
“More than $3,400 has been raised by employees and the business for the worthy cause.”