The Central Coast Mariners and NSW Government have announced a brand new initiative to address gender-based violence in the community.
Onside with the Mariners is aimed at addressing gender based violence and promoting respectful relationships, starting with secondary school students on the Central Coast.
Sadly, the Central Coast consistently ranks among the highest in the state of incidents of domestic and family violence.
Onside with the Mariners is designed to tackle this issue head on, with the program intended as a primary prevention initiative, using football to foster discussions about healthy relationships, respect and conflict resolution.
The program will operate in three stages, with the Mariners hosting A-League football skills sessions, which focus on participation while initiating conversations around domestic violence and employment.
There will then be bespoke domestic and family violence education programs, focusing on domestic violence education, employment opportunities and vocational training.
Onside with the Mariners will host follow up sessions, offering interactive workshops and mentoring opportunities to reinforce learning outcomes.
This initiative is supported by a $1 million grant from the NSW Government’s Office of Sport. It has been co-designed by the Central Coast Mariners and the NSW Department of Education in partnership with the University of Newcastle, meaning Onside with the Mariners will directly align with the current PDHPE Year 7-10 syllabus outcomes.
Speaking exclusively to Gina & Matty at the official launch yesterday (Monday, September 2, 2024), NSW Premier Chris Minns said this is just one step forward when it comes to domestic violence.
“So we’ve announced a whole bunch of rule changes, law changes, making it more difficult for those charged with very serious domestic violence offences getting bail,” Mr Minns said.
“But in addition to that, we need a prevention programme and a lot of money has been spent in other jurisdictions and in other states. New South Wales hasn’t historically done it.”
Mr Minns told Gina & Matty that a program like Onside with the Mariners will make a difference.
“We would, because of the number, because of the prevalence of domestic violence cases in the community, the best thing we can do is change minds, change the culture, ensure that young people in particular, abhor violence, stay away from it,” Mr Minns said.
“And if we can, if they can see their heroes, who don’t participate in violence and it’s not part of their personal lives, we think that that’s a positive change in the community”.
You can hear Gina & Matty’s full chat with Mr Minns, the new Mariners CEO Alyssar Narey and Women’s A-League Head Coach Emily Husband via the podcast below.
If you are dealing with domestic violence, please contact:
1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 (chat function also available online).
In case of emergency, call 000.
Listen via the Star 104.5 Player, download it now via the App Store or Google Play and take Star 104.5 wherever you go.
Images: Central Coast Mariners / Supplied
By Bek Lougher
