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Saturday 29 August 2015

'PeaceNic': Homicide Victims Support Group 'Unite Against Violence' Event, 2015

Following on from the book launch this week of the 'Doujon's Heart' book (see the coverage here), and the incredibly emotional '60 Minutes' Australia' interview (see that interview here), the annual 'Unite Against Violence' walk will be held, to honour and take a stand for all victims of homicide.

While in previous years the event included a walk across the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, this year the event moves to Parramatta Park.

Read about last year's event here.

Here is more about this year's event - it's happening TOMORROW!

Homicide Victims Support Group (Australia) Inc. are inviting your support for this community awareness initiative.

They are hosting a picnic at Parramatta Park on Sunday 30 August 2015.
  
The picnic which they have called 'PeaceNIC' - is an inaugural event (different name this year, but same cause) and promises to be a wonderful day for all participants with free entertainment and activities. Food, drinks and goodies will be available, too.

One of the biggest highlights of the day is the annual 'Ride for Justice', organised by Channel 9’s Simon Bouda. Riders are exclusively members of The NSW Emergency Services, riding in support of HVSG. Seeing the whole fleet of bikes revving it up for good is quite a sight. You can check out their whole route here.

And read more about the incredible Ride For Justice here.

And read more about the focus of this year's event in The Blacktown Advocate here. (Photo credit: Blacktown Advocate):



Kathryn Szyszka (sister of the late Anita Cobby), Simon Bouda, and HVSG executive director Martha Jabour

This is a day for Homicide Victims Support Group members and the community to acknowledge all homicide victims and their families. We aim to create awareness that any type of violence can lead to death. 

Homicide Victims Support Group members are forced to find a way to survive not only the death of their loved one but also the horrific, enduring and unrecognised aspects of this such as the court processes, the media coverage and day to day living. 

The HVSG was set up in June 1993 by the parents of Anita Cobby and Ebony Simpson to offer counselling and support to families and friends of homicide victims. 

Says Chantelle PirottaTrauma and Bereavement Counsellor for the organisation:

"We are seeking your support and involvement with promoting our event and the existence of the group to the wider community. The stark reality is that murder does not discriminate. In New South Wales one murder is committed every three days. Currently there is over three thousand and seven hundred families in the group and that number sadly continues to grow."

More info about the day:

- Jumping castle

- Entertainment by Sydney Youth Jazz
- Activities and games
- Facepainting

All of the above is FREE!
There will be food and goodies available for a gold coin donation. A cake stall, sausage sizzle, popcorn, fairy floss, slushies, tea, coffee, food and drink. YES! Yum (gosh, I love kids' party food).
You are welcome to bring your picnic essentials; rug, chairs, hat, sunscreen, bicycles and helmets (a bike riding track is on the park grounds)
The day is for Homicide Victims Support Group members and the community to acknowledge all homicide victims. Together, we can all create awareness that ANY type of violence can lead to death.

HVSG members are forced to live with the reality of the devastating and horrific ramifications of violence.
You will find PeaceNic at Pavilion Flat Parramatta Park - A short walk from Parramatta train station and bus terminal. Ticketed parking is available within the park and surrounding streets.
The organisers want to thank Rotary Club of Wetherill Park, Rotary Club of Blacktown and Lady of Fatima, Lend a Hand Committee and Simon Bouda for their support.
Here are some photos from past events:






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