Warwick domestic violence prevention champions honoured

The Warwick Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy Group has been recognised at a prestigious awards ceremony today for its efforts to reduce domestic and family violence.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt presented the group with a highly commended certificate in the Partnership Award category at the 2007 Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awards in Brisbane.

“The awards have been presented to individuals, groups, schools and organisations that have developed successful initiatives that help prevent domestic and family violence,” Mr Pitt said.

“It is important that those who speak out about domestic and family violence, who support victims and who promote the right to be safe in your own home, are applauded and recognised.”

Mr Pitt said that the Warwick Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy Group was acknowledged for its Greater Understanding and Response to Domestic Violence (GUARD) project.

“The GUARD project is a multi-media production that engaged 12 high school students to participate in the scripting, production and post-production of a DVD,” Mr Pitt said.

“With segments for children, teenagers and the broader community, the DVD was successful in targeting various audiences.

“It used genres including drama, poetry, art, storytelling and music in an effort to increase awareness of domestic and family violence, and the support that is available.”

The Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awards ceremony is one of the key events held during Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, which runs from 1–31 May.

Today’s awards ceremony recognised six winners and five highly commended certificate recipients in six award categories: Individual, Partnership, Community Organisation, School-based Prevention Project, Government and Indigenous.

Mr Pitt said the award winners and other nominees were leading by example.

“They are excellent role models for the community,” he said.

“Congratulations to all of the winners, and indeed to everyone who was nominated for an award. Their actions challenge all of us to take a stand against domestic and family violence.”

Editors: Photos of winners available on request from the Minister’s Office

Media contacts:
Peter Nibbs, Minister’s Office 3235 4280
Christine Gleeson, Warwick Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Strategy Group 4661 7166