MITCHELL Shire Council is once again standing united alongside its community and Lower Hume Collaborative Group for 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
The 16 Days of Activism is a global campaign that begins on Monday, November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and ends on Tuesday, December 10, Human Rights Day.
Council, as part of the Lower Hume Collaborative Group, is partnering with Murrindindi Shire Council and more than 25 local organisations to make it clear that family violence is not tolerated or accepted within our communities.
Mitchell Shire Mayor Councillor John Dougall said Council is proud to stand with community partners to raise awareness and promote action.
“Every person deserves to feel safe, respected and valued- at home, at work, and in our community,” Cr Dougall said.
“The 16 Days of Activism is a powerful reminder that change starts with us. By standing together, we can challenge harmful behaviours, support victim-survivors, and build a future where equality and safety are the norm.”
“Respect is shown in many forms, through healthy relationships, calling out harmful language, and making it clear that violence in any form is unacceptable.”
“We invite all members of our community to participate in events during the campaign. Together, we can take meaningful steps toward change and show that we stand united in our commitment to ending violence.”
Mitchell Shire continues to face high rates of family violence. In 2023–24, there were 1,327 reported incidents – an increase from the previous year – placing our community 13th highest in the state.
The numbers represent a call to action to the community from Mitchell Shire, setting up a number of workshops throughout the 16 days.
Council will set up a Community Bystander Action workshop.
In partnership with Women’s Health Goulburn Northeast, the Community Bystander Action Workshop is a free event designed to build knowledge and confidence to safely challenge disrespect and promote equality.
It’s open to all community members, including volunteers, sporting clubs and peer educators who want to know what they can do when they see something that doesn’t promote a just and safe world.
You’ll learn how to recognise harmful behaviour, explore how gender inequality impacts everyday experiences, and understand the role each of us plays in creating a respectful community.
There is a session taking place from 5pm to 7.30pm, Thursday, November 27 at the John Taylor Room, Kilmore Library. Light dinner provided.
The Steps Towards Change Walk is also a key event that will take place.
In collaboration with Goulburn River Trail Park Run and Seymour Rotary Club’s ‘Say No to Domestic and Family Violence’ campaign, the Steps Towards Change Walk invites the community to take part in a two km or five km walk/run to show support for respectful relationships and safer communities.
The event includes support service stalls, coffee van and more.
The walk will take place from 7.45 am to 10.30 am, Saturday, November 29 in Lions Park along the Goulburn River Trail in Seymour.
Council will also hold its traditional Coffee with a Cop through its continued partnership with Victoria Police.
Coffee with a Cop provides an opportunity to enjoy a cup of coffee while engaging in informal and safe conversations with local police officers.
It’s a chance to ask questions and encourage meaningful conversations. There is a session taking place from 9.30am to 11am, Thursday December 4 at Kings Perk Café in Seymour. Free coffee provided.
In collaboration with Murrindindi Shire Council, Mitchell Shire has also created a Community Resource Guide to help provide access to local support services, as well as guidance on what to do when you identify and respond to family violence, while providing advice on what happens when it is reported.
These guides will be available on Council’s website, Customer and Library Service Centres, community centres and support services.
