Hundreds of players and spectators stood strong against domestic violence at the 2016 White Ribbon Round in Port Macquarie on Saturday.
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Port Macquarie Hastings Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Service service delivery manager Kylie Dowse praised Hastings AFL clubs for supporting the initiative this year.
“Last year we rolled out a large scale campaign headed by mayor Peter Besseling,” said Mrs Dowse. “This year, AFL North Coast came to us and said we want to do this again. Saturday’s cross conference event is not a drop in the ocean.
“AFL is very committed to the initiative. Rob Oakeshott has a long-standing relationship in this area having led the real men campaign with our service almost a decade ago.”
Mr Oakeshott led the AFL players in swearing the White Ribbon oath.
“The men I spoke with on Saturday have strong views about no violence against women. Five years ago the same conversation would have been very different.
“Something positive is happening out there in the community,” Mrs Dowse said.
With research indicating one in three women experiencing domestic violence, more women are now sourcing services for help and assistance.
This upward trend indicates that women have confidence in the services being provided, says Mrs Dowse.