By Kyra Gillespie
The Cardinia Family Violence Network and Together We Can hosted a trivia night to raise money for the Walk Against Violence, which will take place in Pakenham on Saturday 25 November.
More than $3000 was raised on the night and over 100 guests attended.
The night included a door prize, silent auctions, raffles, a lolly count, trivia and games.
“Among the games played was the suit game where each table had to dress a man as a bride using toilet paper” event organiser Sharon Hawley said.
“A special thanks to Together We Can, the Cardinia Family Violence Network, Pakenham police and the Walk Against Violence group.
“The night finished about midnight and I’m sure some heads would have been sore the next day!”
Local sponsors of the night included BWS, Garfield Golf Club, Puffing Billy, Aerial Fit, Hair by Tracy, Aligned Leisure, the Department of Justice and Koo Wee Rup Regional Health Services.
Together We Can Partnerships and Engagement Facilitator Fiona Cost spoke highly of the event.
“On the night we acknowledged the late Minister Richardson whose efforts to prevent family violence lives on in those who also believe that children should feel safe at home,” Fiona said.
“Many thanks to Sharon Hawley for hosting the trivialities and to all donators including Outlook Victoria for donating the venue, Victoria Police, BWS and Department of Justice staff for their donations and time at the event.
“A fun night was had by all with lots of laughs and singing!”
This year’s theme for the Cardinia Walk Against Violence, which will be hosted by MP Brian Paynter, is Safe Kids – Safe Communities, which aims to bring attention to children’s voices and experiences in domestic violence situations.
To do this The Cardinia Family Violence Network and Together We Can have launched a bumper sticker design competition for schools in Cardinia.
The four bumper sticker design winners will be announced after the walk and will have their designs printed onto hundreds of bumper stickers which will be distributed on the day.
All primary schools have been invited to participate and entries close on 1 November.
“The theme ‘safe kids – safe communities’ and the children’s bumper sticker drawing competition through primary schools, hopes to build awareness that every child has the right to feel safe where they live, learn and play,” Fiona said.
“All funds raised at the trivia night will contribute to the printing of the stickers.”
The walk will start at noon from the Pakenham Library and end at Bourke Park for a family afternoon with free activities and a free barbecue.
Anyone experiencing family violence can call 1800 RESPECT or visit www.asksomeone.org.au.
