Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge manager Gemma Morley said White Ribbon Day is a cause so very close to her heart.
A Coastal Walk was held on Saturday to mark the occasion, with more than 250 residents pounding the pavement and beach from Lighthouse Beach to the Town Green for the cause.
The 3km-long community event was part of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Ms Morley said, “It’s the faces behind the walk that are so important,” she said.
“It’s the personal stories and journey, often of horror, that really hit home.
“All too often we focus on the statistics and not the reality of the victims’ abuse.
“We are bringing that out from behind closed doors.
“People are speaking out through this walk, and being silent no longer.
“People are really finding power in this walk.”
To show your support, go to the website www.whiteribbon.org.au.
