What’s new with the Empowerment Group

This term the Empowerment Group has worked hard on raising awareness about domestic violence and the impact it has on many. After seeing that May is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we made the decision to focus on the topic this term since we believe that continuous awareness-raising is necessary, not only for a single month but all year long. Unfortunately, domestic violence is a serious issue in Australia and globally. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, around 41% of Australians aged 18 and over have experienced violence since the age of 15. Of these, about 27% of women and 12% of men have experienced violence from an intimate partner or family member. These statistics show us the importance of raising awareness and supporting those in need. The Empowerment Group hoped to educate our school community and raise funds.

To do this we hosted out first ever Masked Singer event in the PCC! Students from all year levels paid a $2 entry fee. Students came together to watch our teachers perform in disguise, bringing laughter, excitement, and the guessing game of “who’s behind the mask?” made it lots of fun! Students also purchased $5 lolly bags to enjoy throughout the performances.

Here is a recap of the unforgettable performances:

Mr Verco (Oodgeroo Tiger) sang Everybody Wants to Rule the World

Ms Pasco (Florey Bee) performed Like a Prayer

Ms Stace (Mawson Bear) delivered A Thousand Miles

Mr Houghton (Monash Bird) sang Feed the Birds (acapella)

Mr Bevan (Dobell Frog) charmed us with The Rainbow Connection

Mr Gauchat (Durack Hippo) brought the energy with Uptown Funk

This term, we also partnered with DV Safe Phone, an organisation that collects old mobile phones and redistributes them to people experiencing domestic violence. We have had a phone box in the library and have collected some phones. Having access to a phone can save a life.

Chloe S, Year 11