Kicking off Reclaim the Night: Aboriginal Health Worker Domestic Violence Prevention Education Program Jade Chelman, Acting MNCLHD Chief Executive Jill Wong, CNS 2 Women's Health and Family Planning Jordynn Kiem.

Mid North Coast united against violence at Reclaim the Night

Oct 10, 2024

The Mid North Coast community gathered on Friday, October 4, at Port Macquarie’s Town Green in a powerful show of solidarity to take a stand against domestic and family violence and sexual assault at the annual Reclaim the Night event.

Aunty Rhonda Radley gave a heartfelt Welcome to Country, acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land, the Birpai people, and setting the tone for a night dedicated to unity, awareness, and advocacy.

Acting Chief Executive Jill Wong confirmed the Mid North Coast Local Health District’s (MNCLHD) unwavering commitment to supporting those affected by violence, with a special focus on women and vulnerable populations.

“It’s truly wonderful to see our community coming together to stand united against all forms of violence,” Ms Wong said.

Our health district provides a range of prevention programs to raise awareness of domestic and family violence. These include programs like Love Bites, which educates school students, and active participation in global campaigns such as the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence and the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

“All women have the right to feel safe—no matter where they are, what time of day it is, or what they’re doing,” Ms Wong said.

This year, MNCLHD has taken a significant step forward in its approach by introducing the new Prevention and Response to Violence, Abuse and Neglect (PARVAN) structure.

PARVAN aims to enhance the district’s capacity to respond to a broad spectrum of violence and abuse issues.

It will include a specially trained workforce focusing on domestic and family violence, Aboriginal family wellbeing and violence prevention, adult and child sexual assault, child abuse and neglect, and support for adult survivors of child sexual abuse.

Services will extend to children and young people exhibiting problematic or harmful sexual behaviours, as well as providing medical and forensic examinations related to sexual assault and family violence cases.

“PARVAN is dedicated to delivering culturally safe and trauma-informed care based on evidence. This ensures that every child, young person, and adult who has experienced violence, abuse, or neglect is treated with respect, dignity, and sensitivity,” Ms Wong said.

MNCLHD’s Sexual Assault Services provide 24-hour crisis support to individuals who present to the Emergency Department within seven days of experiencing sexual violence. The service operates with a position of belief, ensuring that every person is met with compassion and privacy during their most vulnerable moments.

Shout out to MNCLHD’s Jordynn Kiem, Jade Chelman and their team of organisers who created a well-supported event for the community.

Click through more photos from the event.