HDVPN 30 Years of Action
There was a standing ovation for Sister Margaret Harper when she was honoured for her role in helping to set up the forerunner of the Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network (HDVPN ) in 1991.
Guests at the event to launch the anniversary booklet, 30 Years of Action, were given a history of the service by Carol Harding of The Sanctuary _ The Hills Women’s Refuge who joined the network in 1995. She compiled the booklet with the help of founding member Faye Hansen.
The network was started by women in the community, often survivors, who came together to discuss domestic violence which was not often talked about in the community. Agencies and services were invited to come along to provide support for those seeking help.
Carol Harding and Faye Hansen said: “ The Hills was seen as an affluent area and many people believed the myth that there was no domestic violence happening in the Hills. Survivors and workers knew differently.”
The HDPVN has been holding forums for parents for many years, it produces wallet cards containing numbers of vital services and has compiled and printed a number of publications. The 60-page anniversary booklet covers the achievements during the 30 years plus lists of service providers and useful contact numbers.
HDVPN Convenor Uma Menon said: “The Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network was established to raise awareness and reduce the incidence of Domestic Violence in the Hills. We remain firmly committed to this aim.”
Special guests at the launch at Castle Hill RSL on June 24th included key-note speaker Jodie Harrison MP, Shadow Minister for Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Peter Primrose MP, Hills Shire Mayor Dr Peter Gangemi, Deputy Mayor Mark Hodges and Hills councillors, Castle Hill RSL Director Annemarie Christie and Members of the Sisters of Mercy who founded St Michael’s Family Centre.
Jodie Harrison MP said: “Your advocacy is driving positive change, we now talk about DV, it affects every part of society no social group is exempt”
HDVPN Patron Dr Michelle Byrne said: “There is no doubt that the Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network has played a huge role in the last 30 years … you’ve literally saved lives.”
Hills Mayor Peter Gangemi said talking about domestic Violence is vital.
“We all have a responsibility to ensure the violence against women and children is not acceptable. It will not be tolerated, not today, not ever. This book will help spread the word about the support and assistance that is available for women and children escaping domestic balance Noosa provides an essential educational tool for people wanting to understand more alert call ways they can help recommend the Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network on this fantastic initiative.”
To get a copy of the 60-page HDVPN booklet or to find out more about the Hills Domestic Violence Prevention Network email: [email protected]
The Domestic Violence Help Line is 1800 656 463 The National Counselling Line is 1800RESPECT, Mensline is 1300 789 978.
Contact details for the local accommodation services in the Hills are: The Lisa Harnum Foundation 1300 732 848 website: lisahf.org.au and The Sanctuary _- The Hills Women’s Shelter Ph: 9680 2653 Website: thesanctuaryshelter.org.au
In an emergency call 000.
