The Bellarine community is working together to help prevent family violence or abuse through initiatives across the region.
Last year, Bellarine North Rotary Club raised funds, distributed posters to help people recognise signs of family and domestic violence and partnered with charities to offer support.
Treasurer and Say No to Family and Domestic Violence group representative Leila Rielly said it was “extremely important” to hold initiatives that brought awareness to family and domestic violence.
“It’s about putting awareness out there that it’s not just abuse, it’s lots of different things that are classed as domestic violence,” she said.
“The more we can get it out there, the more people hear about it; hopefully, if we can prevent one death, that’s a good outcome.
“We didn’t want to reinvent the wheel and start up something new when other clubs or associations in the area were doing something, so we tried to work with them.”
Bellarine North Rotary Club recently called for toiletries to support women and children affected by family and domestic violence, which were donated to the Salvation Army and Vinnies.
Ms Rielly said the club’s efforts were part of a broader commitment to create a safer and more supportive community.
Rotary International’s February theme is Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention, with clubs working to help people where needed.
Family violence incidents in Greater Geelong recorded by Victoria Police had increased by 220 cases to 5085 during the 2023/24 financial year, according to the Crime Statistics Agency.
By Jena Carr
