On Friday the 11th of November a young lady was going through an incident of domestic violence, which placed her safety greatly at risk.

The gentlemen in question, who saw what was going on, became heroes by their following actions.

Whether they knew it, or not, they did what was required to safely “Stand Up, Speak Out and Act” and prevent any more harm.

Through the men’s actions the young lady was able to be supported to a safe place by the Tamworth Family Support Staff, until police intervened. 

This young lady will also be able to receive further assistance through our services.

This is a perfect example of what can happen when we stand up to domestic violence as a society.

The majority of Domestic Violence is carried out by a male perpetrator, but not by a majority of men.

I ask all people to follow in these men’s footsteps and Stand Up, Speak Out and Act when you see an incident.

Tips on how to this in a safe manner can be found on the White Ribbon website www.whiteribbon.org.au

Leigh Smith

Tamworth Family Support Services

I am hoping that you will print this in your thumbs up segment please.

On 27th October my husband Kevin Wilson was on his way to Castlereagh Imaging when he had a bad fall, between the Albert an the Chainsaw and Mower Centre, in Peel Street.

The people who came to help so quickly were wonderful. The lady from Lane IT – a lady who put her handbag under Kevin’s head. 

The chap from the mower place and he also called the ambulance. 

A lady relieving at Castlereagh Imaging got towels and two chaps from Castlereagh Imaging came and dressed Kevin’s head and brought a wheelchair. The two young chaps who turned Kevin over and supported his head, plus a young man from the Albert with cold water. The lady from Lane IT brought water and an umbrella. Thank you all very, very much.

Jen Wilson

Kootingal

From 19 to 27 November, Australia celebrates National Inclusion Week by coming together and encouraging communities to reconnect and be inclusive of all cultures, age groups, nationalities and the disadvantaged.

Australia as a nation has deep roots in multiculturalism and as such we should embrace it, celebrate it and ensure that we no longer accept social exclusion within our society.  As a community we need to band together to ensure that we as Australians provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for those around us.  Now is the best time to set aside our differences and come together to support each other.

I work with countless kids from an extremely diverse group of cultures, ages, nationalities and abilities and let me tell you that despite their differences they are incredibly inclusive and respectful.  We should be looking at these kids as an example of how to treat one-another.

By engaging with, and including others in your community there is so much to be gained.  I have spoken before about looking at life through a variety of lenses to fully understand our society, and I firmly believe that inviting people of a variety of backgrounds into one’s life strengthens their perception of community.

Community involvement is a crucial part of development; kids need to be involved in their community whether it is through volunteering, fundraising or just meeting community leaders.  We will always strive to encourage and assist the development of our young people, and it is through events such as National Inclusion Week that our young people can learn the importance of social inclusion.

In National Inclusion Week I encourage you to not only reflect on how social inclusion and exclusion has impacted your community, but to also take action by hosting or attending registered event.

Father Chris Riley

CEO and Founder at Youth Off The Streets

Change is inevitable, but it’s how you navigate it that matters. In this ever changing world we urge everyone who cares about our society – whether you live in Sydney or Swan Hill – to remember we all deserve respect and dignity.

Our country’s success is built on this very idea of a ‘fair go’ for all, a notion underpinned by the very basic principle of humanity. Humanity is universal in nature and urges that all people – no matter their gender, race or religion – to be treated with respect, and given the chance to live life in dignity.

In this world we have choices to make: a fair go for all, or just for some; unity or separation. We all have the chance to nurture and promote the kindness, compassion and goodness that are essential for human dignity.

At Red Cross, we work for unity, humanity and the inherent dignity of every person. We encourage all Australians and our community, political and business leaders to do the same.

Judy Slatyer

Australia Red Cross CEO