Females in force for a united cause

Female councillors Stephanie Davies and Tammy Radford join the CWA Officer branch in walking to raise awareness for violence against women. Picture: CARDINIA SHIRE COUNCIL

By Mitchell Clarke

Donning orange, the Officer Owls CWA members joined Cardinia Shire Council’s female councillors in taking “literal steps” towards addressing the systemic issue of family violence.

The female ensemble gathered at Lakeside in Pakenham on Monday 30 November for a Covid safe walk as part of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence.

In October 2020 alone, support organisation Wayss responded to 99 police reports of family violence in Cardinia.

“Together we can make a difference for women to be safe at home,” Officer Owls CWA spokeswoman Pamela Archibald said.

“Our walk is a symbolic gesture towards a future where all people are safe, equal and respected, free from all forms of family violence and violence against women.

“Each of us can do our part by showing zero tolerance to abuse in the family, at work, in sexist language and jokes. It is not OK. It is not funny.”

Officer Ward councillor Tammy Radford said it was “wonderful” to join the Officer CWA branch for the “special walk”.

“Each local community event can further help raise awareness of this important issue within our community, and I commend the Officer CWA for their initiative,” Cr Radford said.

Toomuc Ward councillor Stephanie Davies echoed a similar statement. She said it was “lovely” to take some literal steps towards raising awareness in the community.

“The prevention of family violence is something that I and all my fellow councillors are very passionate about,” Cr Davies said.

Support services are available by calling 1800 RESPECT. For immediate help, call 000.