Sophie Conlon
Mount Gambier/ Berrin’s three Rotary clubs have come together in organising a ‘Say No to Domestic and Family Violence Dinner’ to launch next year’s campaign for the district and build a community committee dedicated to raising awareness for domestic and family violence.
Rotary Club of Mount Gambier Lakes president Sherril McKay said everyone was invited to come along to the dinner and learn more about domestic violence and how they could become involved in Rotary’s new campaign.
“We know the key is getting people who already make a difference and those who want to make a difference to get involved,” she said.
The dinner will include a talk from domestic violence survivor Simone O’Brien, who will share her experience and fight for survival.
Ms McKay said she had previously heard Ms O’Brien speak, and thought it was a very moving experience.
“It’s quite confronting, but she’s gone on now to talk… she is dedicating her life to awareness,” she said.
Portland Rotarian Carolyn Millard will also speak at the evening, and explain how the combined Rotary Clubs of Portland created a Say NO to Family Violence Committee who partnered with community stakeholders to share their message.
“We can learn from them, because they were the drivers in getting stakeholders together to form the community committee,” she said.
“We’d like as many community members to come as possible to hear what they’ve done… because it would be great if we had a community group.”
After the dinner Ms McKay said members from the Mount Gambier Lakes, Mount Gambier West, and Mount Gambier Rotary Club’s would form a committee which members of the community would be able to join.
“We’d love to get something going,” she said.
She said the committee would work to raise awareness around domestic violence and encourage people to speak out.
Tickets to the Say No to Domestic and Family Violence Dinner on Monday, May 22, 6pm at The Commodore are still available, find details online at Humanitix.