Speaking to Bundaberg Patrol Group chief inspector Grant Marcus about the Bundaberg Domestic and Family Violence Community Working Group, you can hear a real sense of both hope and pride in his voice.
Having come together initially in April this year, this group made up of community influencers and leaders meet each month to work on ways that they can inspire positive change, appreciating how important it is to put the work in however they can.
Chief Inspector Marcus said while members of the group understood that solving the distressing issue of domestic and family violence in our communities wasn’t something that could happen overnight, they are saying enough is enough and working to make a change.
“We are really seeing both our members and others throughout the community including in local schools develop a greater level of awareness around domestic and family violence and really take note how significant an issue it is that we all need to be proactive in solving,” he said.
“Looking around the room at each meeting, I am proud to be surrounded by a lot of passionate people who are really committed to doing what they can around this issue and putting in the work and sharing whatever resources they can.
“Through considerable research we have developed an understanding that there are gaps in the system especially around First Nations and we are working with a dedicated sub group and community representatives to advocate for change in that area as well.
“We have also been working with the Bundaberg Regional Council who are developing a map of all the domestic and family violence support services in the community which will be finalized by the end of June next year.
“It has already been an interesting process starting this map which will be very detailed as there are also many church and community groups who are helping however, they can with support, education and fundraising.”
The Bundaberg region continues to remain dedicated in the area of domestic and family violence, leading the way in regional areas firstly with the safe room at the Bundaberg Police Station and having an Embedded Worker from EDON Place available five days a week.
“We have seen an immediate positive response in having this better worker since 31 August, because they provide that extra support for the victims and their families, allow us to direct them to suitable programs and also find emergency accommodation if needed.
“We are always looking at ways in which we can fulfil our role better and this allows us to continue to work out where we can go next for more positive results.
“Our safe room was made possible with the support of the Zonta Club of Bundaberg and we look forward to working with them in the education and awareness campaign of 16 Days of Activism in November.”
While members of the Bundaberg Domestic and Family Violence Community Group continue to work towards empowerment, giving victims a voice and supporting education especially in schools to help make a change, they are also looking towards their official launch in May next year for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month.
“We are committed to the theme of Domestic and Family Violence Free, Matters to Me.”
