Local Mt Glorious resident Wendy Reid will trek the remote Larapinta Trail in a personal effort to break the insidious cycle of domestic and family violence.‘This is the hidden pandemic’, says Wendy.
‘We hear so much about swine flu yet most Australians do not realise that domestic violence kills two women in Australia each week’
‘This trek is a challenge to raise awareness of the issue, get fit for the trek by September, as well as raise $4000 dollars for a domestic violence prevention charity. The Larapinta trail is a 200km path stretching the backbone of the West MacDonnell Ranges through rugged, rust-coloured bush in the ancient heartland of the Northern Territory.
‘I know what a devastating impact family violence can have on kids, and was in an abusive relationship myself when I was a young woman – yet did not recognise it as such. It took a very serious incident for me to realise I needed to get out – to protect myself and my baby.
‘Living in an abusive relationship grinds away ones self esteem and confidence, making people feel unworthy and unable to change their situation.
‘Most of us don’t realise the extent of the problem, said Wendy.
Domestic violence not only includes physical violence but also includes behaviours that are subtle and covert and may not be recognised by family, friends and workmates. These include constant put downs, unpredictable reactions and outbursts, threats to harm children or pets, driving dangerously, control of money, isolating you from family and friends, or telling you what to wear, what to say or who you can see.
Statistics show that one in three women in Australia will experience domestic violence, and one in five children witness violence in their home. In Queensland alone the Police handle more than 40 000 confirmed domestic violence incidents each year, yet nine out of 10 women do not report domestic violence.
‘I want all families be places of love, peace and safety, says Wendy, ‘where all members from babies to elders, men and women, live with respect, care and understanding.
‘That’s why I’ve taken on this challenge.
For more information contact Wendy Reid on 0421 058 250
To contribute to this cause go to http://www.everydayhero.com.au/wendy_reid
