Rally to end domestic violence

White balloons filled the sky above Anzac Park yesterday for White Ribbon Day in Bunbury.

More than 100 people marched from the Bunbury Regional Art Galleries to Anzac Park to support ending violence against women.

Relationships Australia perpetrators group coordinator Marie Mahony said it was good to see a mix of men and women involved.

“According to personal safety statistics, domestic abuse is still a big problem in the South West,” she said.

“The day gives the community an opportunity to wear their white ribbon and inspire people to seek help or change their behaviour.”

One in three Australian women will experience violence in an intimate relationship.

The United Nations has designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and the White Ribbon has become a symbol for the day.

Marcher Scott Browning said he would like to see society free from violence and abuse against women.

“My wife is a GP and she sees a lot of women who have suffered from domestic abuse, so I’ve come to support her,” he said.

“I think it’s fundamental, for men especially, to raise awareness about the issue. People need to know it’s not acceptable.”

The event echoes calls from South Metropolitan MLC Lynn MacLaren for more refuges in WA, to meet an increasing need for those fleeing domestic violence.

“We need to give these women and children safety,” she said.

“We need to offer them support and a place to go, no one deserves physical violence in their home and no one deserves to die as a result.”

Anyone experiencing domestic violence is encouraged to contact the police.