Sporting clubs have a unique platform to drive cultural change in our communities and on the weekend, four local sporting clubs showed their commitment to creating an Australia where all women and children can live in safety, free from violence and abuse.
Birchip-Watchem Bulls, Sea Lake-Nandaly Tigers, Charlton and Wycheproof-Narraport football, netball and hockey clubs participated in White Ribbon Round and the Mount of Prevention Respect Cup Round.
Players wore white armbands, white ribbon tattoos and observed 36 seconds silence before games, to recognise the 36 women who have been murdered in Australia already this year in acts of gender-based violence.
The observation of 36 seconds of silence had a powerful impact as it commanded the attention of the players and officials taking part in the matches and the supporters watching the games.
It was fitting that White Ribbon Round between Birchip-Watchem and Sea Lake-Nandaly Tigers and the Mount of Prevention Respect Cup Round between Charlton and Wycheproof-Narraport were played the same weekend that the AFL also elected to make a stand against gender-based violence.
In the AFL players and coaches gathered in the centre circle to observe a minute’s silence prior to all nine games played over the weekend. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon said “When it comes to violence against women, the only acceptable figure is zero. This weekend we wanted to show unity and remember all the women who have been killed as a result of gender-based violence and stand in solidarity in committing to do more to stop this community-wide problem”.
“We also understand our industry still has work to do, but we are committed to continuing to educate, to take action, and are even more conscious that we must work harder than ever. All men are responsible for doing better.”
One woman is killed every four days by a current or former partner, and many more have experienced physical violence at the hands of current and former partners, and this does not include all the other physical and emotional abuse that is happening.
It is our collective responsibility as a community to take a stand, speak out and act, to prevent violence against women, against our daughters, mothers, sisters, friends and colleagues.
If you need information on how you can be part of the solution or referrals for support or assistance, you can contact your local neighbourhood house.
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, phone 1800 RESPECT. For counselling, advice and support for men who have anger, relationship, or parenting issues, call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 7 May 2024.
