A man who has seen the affect domestic violence has on individuals and their communities first-hand has urged families to discuss the growing issue.
During the 2017 Silent Domestic Violence Memorial March community leader George Walley said he would be walking the streets of Mandurah, along with many others, to show his support and help raise awareness.
Held on November 21 this year, the march is an annual event that honours and acknowledges those who have lost their lives as a result of domestic and family violence.
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A White Ribbon ambassador and one of the managers of the aboriginal health centre Mr Walley said domestic and family violence was an issue close to his heart.
He has also been a witness to violence against his mother as a child.
Having attended four marches previously to give speeches or to sing songs, Mr Walley said the event will be an emotional occasion for all involved.
“I’ve either given speeches there or taken the guitar along and sung some of the songs that are dear to me that are written based on family,” he said.
“One in particular was based on myself as a nine year old and the impact of a person who was in my life as a step father figure.
“He was a decent enough person when he was sober but when he was drunk he was a different person.
“It didn’t happen all the time but… once is always enough.
“All those sort of things had an impact on me and you grow up with that.
“That’s something as an adult you have to revisit – the situation – and so I did, in the best way I could deal with that [which was through song].
“[It’s] a beautiful song.
“It’s not only about a person who eventually committed suicide, it’s about the strength of your mum, the strength of your family."
He said it was important than ever for all families to have the conversation about the on-going crisis.
“We just need to – as a community and as parents of children – have these conversations about the impact that it has in a very, real way,” Mr Walley said.
“I’d like to think that parents have a good strong opinion about what kids should be doing.
“Adults should be having a conversation.”
The march is coordinated through support services Allambee Counselling and Pat Thomas House.
The gathering will start at Mewburn Gardens on Sholl Street, Mandurah.
Keynote speakers will start the address at 10am followed by a Silent March along Mandurah Terrace to the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre for light refreshments.
Music will be provided by students from Halls Head College.
How to report family or domestic violence
Call police on 131 444 to report an incident of family and domestic violence. People with hearing impairments can call TTY 106.
Questions you may be asked:
- The address where the incident is taking place.
- Your name and telephone number.
- The offender's name, age and date of birth.
- Are there any weapons involved? Are you able to describe them?
- Are you the victim? If no, what's the victim's name?
To make an anonymous report contact Crimestoppers on 1300 333 000 or online at crimestopperswa.com.au.
