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Mayor Clare Le Serve gives message to empower girls and women

As Mayor of Bass Coast, I prioritise gender equality and empowerment. Recent headlines highlight alarming rates of femicide and violence against women. We support initiatives like GFFV to create safe, respectful communities.

By news@gippsland - 29th April 2024 - Back to News

As Mayor of Bass Coast, I want to address a pressing issue that affects us all: gender equality and empowerment for women and girls. Recent headlines have highlighted disturbing stories of femicide and violence against women, casting a shadow over our communities. I extend my sympathies and thoughts to all those affected. One woman is killed nearly every week in Australia due to family violence. 2 in 5 women (39%) have experienced violence since the age of 15.

As Mayor, Cr Clare Le Serve prioritises gender equality. Recent headlines show alarming rates of femicide. We support initiatives like GFFV for safer communities

Gippsland's domestic violence

It is still concerning that Gippsland has poor statistics around domestic violence (ranked #23 in Victoria) - although there is hope that in our region we are actively talking about this; destigmatising; and supporting programs, groups and people who are doing positive work to ensure each year we do a bit better.

We are proud to support the Gippsland Free From Violence (GFFV) Partnership which aims to prevent gender-based violence before it occurs, by creating safe, equal and respectful communities across Gippsland.

GFFV is a capacity-building partnership led by Gippsland Women's Health supporting a collaborative and coordinated approach to gendered violence prevention both locally and regionwide by the collective effort of our community in fostering a culture of respect and equality.

Candlelight vigil partnership

Bass Coast Shire Council Candlelight Vigil in partnership with "Change for Sam" Bass Coast Shire Council is hosting a Candlelight Vigil in partnership with "Change for Sam". The Vigil provides a space where the community can take the time to reflect on the tragic loss of lives as a result of family violence, and the ongoing risk to women and children in Gippsland where we consistently face some of the highest family violence reporting rates in the state.

I thank everyone involved in this - you will see many purple lights beaming around in the evening in businesses and other spaces in support of this event.

• Cowes - Jetty Triangle, Wednesday 1 May - 6:30pm - 8:00pm
• Coaching Women and Girls Course

Women in sport is something we have been supporting for a long time. I'm thrilled to announce that the Hawks VFL football club will be coming to Wonthaggi for a range of events and as part of their visit, we will be hosting Daniel Webster (VFLW Coach) for a training session for coaches of women and girls.

Those joining us will also get an opportunity to participate in match day activities at the VFL/VFLW Double Header on Sunday 12 May.

• Dalyston Recreation Reserve
• Friday 3 May - 6:00pm

As we celebrate women and approach Mother's Day this weekend, let us thank all the great mothers -those here with us and those who have left a legacy of love and strength; and those people who have stepped up to fill the void.

Bass Coast Community Awards

Lastly, I want to recognise and support the numerous brilliant community groups and individuals (often volunteers) who contribute tirelessly to make Bass Coast a better place. Please consider nominating these unsung heroes for our Community Awards program. Your nominations not only honour their hard work but also inspire others to follow their example. Nominations are open until Friday 3 May.

This year we have the inclusion of the Contribution to Arts and Culture Award dedicated to those who have made an exceptional contribution to the arts and cultural life of the community or a remarkable achievement in an arts and cultural activity.

Please visit our website - Bass Coast Community Awards | Bass Coast Shire to nominate. Alternatively you can give our friendly customer service centre a call or send your submissions in by email. Together, let's create a community where kindness prevails, and everyone - regardless of gender - can thrive and contribute meaningfully.

Local support services

• 1800 RESPECT - National 24 hr counselling, helpline, information and support 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) (24 hours)
• Safe Steps - Family Violence Response Centre 1800 015 188 (24 hours)
• The Orange Door - Local support and safety hub for adults, children, young people and families Inner Gippsland 1800 696 784 (9am to 5pm Mon-Fri) Outer
• Gippsland 1800 015 188 (9am to 5pm Mon-Fri)
• Gippsland Centre Against Sexual Assault (GCASA) A free and confidential service, available to anyone in Gippsland who has ever experienced, or been impacted by, sexual assault. 035134 3922 (9am to 5pm Mon-Fri

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com