Rockhampton student honoured for domestic violence prevention

Rockhampton year 12 student Natalee Rauch was recognised for her efforts to reduce and prevent domestic and family violence at a prestigious awards ceremony in Brisbane today.

Communities Minister Warren Pitt presented Natalee with the coveted Individual Award at the 2007 Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Awards.

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

“This is one way of honouring these dedicated people and the difference they are making in the lives of those affected by this form of abuse.

“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.”

Member for Rockhampton Robert Schwarten said Natalee’s award honoured her commitment to addressing domestic and family violence in the Rockhampton community.

“As a year 12 student, Natalee had the courage to face her own history of being a victim of domestic and family violence, and found the strength to help others in a similar situation,” he said.

“With the support of Moonshadow Healing Arts, Natalee organised an art workshop that helped students express their feelings on issues surrounding domestic and family violence.

“This project demonstrates how one person’s leadership, courage and strength can help make a difference to the lives of many and help put an end to domestic and family violence.”

Rockhampton’s Moonshadow Healing Arts was also presented with a highly commended certificate in the School-based Prevention Project category at today’s awards ceremony.

“Moonshadow Healing Arts was recognised for its Youth Expression Sessions, a school-based initiative funded by the Department of Communities,” Mr Schwarten said.

“With 13 collaborative partners, the project provided a series of art workshops including Natalee’s workshop.

“The workshops involved three central Queensland high schools and more than 800 high school students, many of which have been, or are at risk of being, affected by domestic and family violence.

“Through these workshops, students were able to express and work through their feelings while creating artworks that educate others about domestic and family violence.”

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
Ms Lindy Fry, Moonshadow Healing Arts 0439 381 277