Many hands made light work at Terrigal on November 19 when 18 pine trees were festooned in colour.
The installation, organised by the Zonta Club of Central Coast, is part of Central Coast Says No to Domestic Violence month.
Zonta Club of Central Coast President, Christine Maclaren, said the vibrant, creative works show what can be done when community works together, and send a powerful message that we can all do something to end the cycle of domestic abuse.
“By creating respectful relationships in our families and workplaces, and refusing to excuse put downs or bullying, we can all build a better community,” she said.
The art installation, which comprises hundreds of brightly coloured squares, shapes and decorations, with each tree also bearing a powerful anti-violence message, will be in place until December 17 and has already generated interest and comment.
“We’ve had comments such as ‘stunningly beautiful installation’,” Maclaren said.
“It’s been attracting a lot of attention, particularly from men.
“Children are entranced, and adults are photographing the signs.”
Organisations involved in preparing the installation include the Breakers Club Bowlers, CWA Woy Woy, Kamira Farm, Soroptimists and Coast Shelter as well as many individuals and families.
“In Australia, one in four women, and one in 13 men, experience physical, sexual or emotional violence at the hands of a partner (Dept of Social Security 2019),” Maaclaren said.
“On the Central Coast police are seeing a rise in crimes of intimidation, harassment, stalking and sexual assault.
“The Yarn Bomb project shows in a colourful and inclusive way what we can do to end the scourge of domestic and family violence.”
Terry Collins