College students take a stand
Horsham College students are standing up against domestic violence in support of a campaign launched in the region late last week.
Students William Goudie and Annabel Risson are helping to spread awareness for a Wimmera Committee Against Family Violence ‘Shine the Light’ campaign.
The students’ support came in a year when statistics showed rates of violence were up 40 percent in Horsham between April and June compared with the same period last year.
“We need to take a stand against domestic violence and stand up for what’s right,” William said.
“This year has been worse because people have been locked in during the pandemic. Talking about it is hard, but it’s important to seek help.”
Annabel said women and children had the right to feel safe. “Every woman deserves to be treated rightly by everyone,” she said.
“If you hear of someone experiencing domestic violence you can contact the authorities.”
Annabel encouraged Wimmera residents to support the cause.
The students’ comments came after the committee launched a video for its ‘Shine the Light’ campaign on Friday.
The 12-minute video started with a tribute to Australian women and children who had lost their lives to domestic violence.
Wimmera residents also featured in the video with a short clip of them explaining why they supported the cause. Others shared photos.
The video replaced an annual community walk the committee would normally run in November.
Committee vice-chair Shane Podolski said the video was an effective tool to reach audiences across the country and internationally.
“The analytics show there have been more than 4500 people who have interacted with the video – it’s been viewed in England and America,” he said.
“That is great because this cause is not just an issue in Horsham, it’s worldwide.”
Mr Podolski said it was ‘vital’ the committee could continue to spread its message, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The support from the community has just been incredible,” he said.
“I just want people to keep sharing the video – this campaign is not over.
“I would love to integrate a video like this every year as part of our annual walk to use social media to our advantage.”