Yarn bombing draws attention to domestic violence

The Zonta Club Central Coast has co-ordinated a Yarn Bomb installation of colourful knitted wraps on trees in Gosford to draw attention to domestic and family violence.

Zonta members have been joined by members of Soroptimists Brisbane Waters and CWA Woy Woy to wrap trees in Lions Park on the Gosford waterfront and in Mann St.

The action is part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence campaign which begins on November 25 and runs through until December 10.

The eye-catching wraps will remain in place until December 13.

“Many people do not recognise that physical violence is not the only form of abuse that people experience,” a spokesperson said.

“Each of the trees has a message about different forms of violence and abuse, such as coercive control, financial and social restrictions and emotional abuse, as well as information about how to find help.”

Australian Bureau of Statistics data reveals that in Australia, one in four women, and one in 13 men, experience physical, sexual or emotional violence at the hands of a partner.

It is estimated that on average one woman dies each week due to domestic violence while about 660 domestic violence matters are dealt with by police each day.

The Central Coast has the second highest number of domestic violence incidences in NSW and is over-represented in breaches of apprehended violence orders.

The spokesperson said the Yarn Bomb brings positive messaging and hope by offering suggestions about how the scourge of domestic violence can be reduced by: not accepting gender stereotypes; promoting women’s independence; encouraging respectful relationships; and confronting domestic violence acts wherever and whenever they occur.

“The installations at Gosford has already been viewed by hundreds of people,” the spokesperson said.

“Everyone is encouraged to go and spend some time viewing the trees and thinking about how we can each make a difference to make our community safer.”