THE Ararat community will march against family violence on Tuesday.
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The walk recognises White Ribbon Day, which is on Friday.
Participants will gather at Edith Cavell Reserve at 5.15pm for a 5.30pm start and will walk to Ararat Town Hall where they will hear from guest speakers, survivor Simone O’Brien and Senior Sergeant Damian Ferrari of Ararat.
An attack at the hands of Ms O’Brien’s former partner resulted in the loss of her eyesight in her right eye and losing her sense of smell.
She has become a leading voice in the Wimmera, and beyond, speaking out against family violence.
Ararat Rural City Council’s White Ribbon Committee members Danielle Jenkins and Janeen Williamson have organised the march, which is the fifth in Ararat.
Ms Jenkins, also a family violence survivor, said there was still a lack of understanding in the community about the definition of family violence.
“It’s any form of violence that is perpetrated by a previous or current intimate partner, where it actually degrades your human rights,” she said.
“It can be financial, verbal, stalking, physical, emotional.”
Crime Statistics Agency data shows an increase in family violence incidents reported in the Ararat region across the past five years.
Police recorded 272 incidents in 2016-17 – up from a 2012-13 figure of 218.
Ms Jenkins said continuing to raise awareness about the issue – particularly the prevalence of violence against women and children – was vital.
“I don’t think people realise how bad it really is and how bad it could get if we don’t change things now. It is already an epidemic but it could get worse,” she said.
But Ms Jenkins said the community’s understanding was growing and government action was positive.
“People talk about it now. They know what it is and with all the government messaging, it has to sink in,” she said.
“The key message for us is educate yourself, (and) be role models.”
If you, or someone you know, is impacted by sexual assault or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732. In an emergency, call Triple 0.