Chance to pull weight to help

There were almost four domestic-related assaults every day in Bankstown in the 12 months up to last March, but domestic violence takes many forms, including psychological and financial, and all are abuse.
Registrations are now open for the Cup which will see teams competing against each other in a fun but competitive tournament on Wednesday, November 23, at the John Mackay Indoor Sports Centre – all while showing their opposition to domestic violence.
Previous competitor and presenter, Gerry Pike, a Remote Area Coordinator in the Ambulance Service, can’t wait to get his hands on the rope. His NSW Ambulance team and the NSW Police Force team have been face-to-face in the final round of the Tug O’ War Cup twice, with the ambos “pipped by the coppers both times”, Gerry said.
The Tug O’ War Cup brings people together to take a stand against domestic violence, something Gerry is passionate about.
“It is a great community event, but it also spreads the message that domestic violence is never acceptable,” he said.
“It’s so important to target young men at an early age. If they witness domestic violence, they may believe it to be acceptable and may turn to it in later life.
“We’ve got to be able to educate young and up and coming boys that violence is never acceptable.”
Mayor Khal Asfour is proud of how the community is taking a stand against domestic violence.
The day will feature stalls, activities and free barbecue.
Registrations: cb.city/tug-o-war, 9707 941 or communitysafety@cbcity.nsw.gov.au.