The League of Kilted Athletes (LOKA) raised $3614 to benefit local women and children experiencing domestic violence during the Run Against Violence in September.
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The Run Against Violence virtual challenge involved teams accumulating 1300km within 19 days from August 30 to September 17.
Team Willie completed the 1300km in a single day, finishing in first place with a record time of 22hrs and 28mins.
The 10-person team ran a 130km course from Port Macquarie to Crowdy Head return.
Team Nessie's 20-person team completed the event in six days, finishing eighth overall.
Team Nessie ran a traditional virtual run, so each member completed their distance individually.
LOKA member Clifford Hoeft said this year the athletes decided to support Liberty Domestic and Family Violence Specialist Services.
"We know that COVID-19 has put added pressure on domestic violence services and we wanted to contribute with donations and also raising awareness of this issue in our local community," Clifford said.
Liberty CEO Kelly Lamb said the service was experiencing increased calls for support over recent weeks as lockdown restrictions eased and women were more able to reach out for help.
"We are now expecting a further increase in referrals to our service as changes to JobKeeper and flow-on impacts on the economy put added pressure on families," Mrs Lamb said.
"We are very grateful for groups like the League of Kilted Athletes and others who donate to our service.
"The fundraising makes a real difference in the lives of the families we work with, and knowing we have the support of our community really spurs us on in the difficult work we do every day.
"The funds will be put towards the renovation of the family bedrooms at our crisis accommodation, Galbaan House. The renovation project involves making the family bedrooms more comfortable, modern and welcoming.
"This is incredibly valuable in helping local women and children feel safe and secure when they take the important step to leave violence and seek support from Liberty."
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, contact Liberty on 6583 2155 or the Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 when it is safe to do so.
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