It’s a twin town clash, but this time Forbes and Parkes high schools are on the same side.
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On Wednesday November 22, the traditional rivals will face off on the footy field: in support of White Ribbon Australia and to raise awareness about domestic violence.
The game, beginning at 9:30am, is hosted by Forbes High this year with Parkes High hosting the game next year.
Forbes High School’s Relieving Principal Jason Nottingham said the school has a real focus on well-being and this football match helps to build a strong link with the community and White Ribbon.
White Ribbon Australia is an organisation dedicated to ending violence against women.
“Having a footy match is a good awareness raising event for both towns,” Mr Nottingham said.
Parkes High School teacher Joe Spicer said the high school had been involved with White Ribbon campaigns before, but decided to take part in the match because of the greater awareness it will create.
Mr Spicer said they hope to the game creates more of a focus on what White Ribbon do and what their messages are.
Chase Dingle, representative from CMOC-Morthparkes Mines, said the company came on board to sponsor the game as it is important to get White Ribbon’s messages to the community.
Forbes High School’s White Ribbon Ambassador Barry Merritt said event was not about the game, but rather about the message that domestic violence is not okay.
Each year a new theme is chosen for White Ribbon Day, with this year’s theme being ‘Stop’.
Campaign organisers are providing resources and tools to help men safely intervene when they witness disrespect, abuse or violence against women.
According to White Ribbon’s statistics, on average, one woman is killed every week in Australia by domestic violence.
White Ribbon CEO Libby Davies said, “This statistic is horrifying and we have to work together to challenge attitudes and behaviours to prevent all violence against women.”
White Ribbon has a national primary prevention initiative aiming to stop violence before it occurs through education programs in schools, workplaces and the broader community.
White Ribbon Day 2017 is on Saturday November 25, but Forbes High will be marking the day on Friday November 24.
To take part in the community march, meet in Cross Street at 10am.
For more go to www.whiteribbon.org.au/
