Bullying focus for students

Students from Nar Nar Goon, Garfield, Bunyip, Longwarry and Labertouche Primary Schools and St James and Columba Catholic Primary Schools recently took part in a special bullying program.

Titled Say no to Bullying, the program was organised by Bunyip Garfield Rotary Club. More than 150 year five students took part. The program was undertaken with assistance from VicPol officers, teachers and Rotarians with a focus on workshops on cyberbully, bystander actions and other related topics.

The workshops were conducted by Project Rockit, which is currently working with Facebook and others to develop "digital ambassadors" to help students.

The program was conducted with financial support from Bunyip and District Community Bank, Victoria Police, Pakenham Racing Club and the Garfield and Bunyip Op Shops. There was no charge to the students. Lunch, ably cooked by Rotarians was provided to all attendees who also received a show bag of goodies.

The club was also able to provide students with a very active Zumba session followed by relaxing and mindful Yoga.

Rotarian John Legoine said the club organ ised the day because of the impact of bullying on the victim and perpetrator.

He said bullying has been found to adversely impact both bullies and victims.

Bullies, for example, are at higher risk of substance abuse, depression, anxiety and hostility than non-bullies.

For bullying victims, being targeted can result in increased suicide risk, depression, poor school performance and physical health, and low self-esteem, he said.