LAST week, I had the privilege of embarking on a journey with local advocate and author Conor Pall visiting several schools in our community to delve into the profound and often sensitive topic of family violence.
Our discussions with students centred around Conor’s debut book, “The Shadow that Follows,” which poignantly reflects his personal experiences and sheds light on the impact of family violence on young people.
As we navigated through seven schools, including Koorlong Primary School, The Lake School, Red Cliffs East Primary School, Chaffey College, Mildura Specialist School, Robinvale College, and St Mary’s School Robinvale, I was profoundly moved by the depth of maturity and thoughtful inquiries displayed by the students we encountered.
Engaging with classrooms, captains and leaders, it became evident that our local schools are not just educational institutions; they are sanctuaries of knowledge, compassion, and support.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the schools we visited for being exceptional hosts and showcasing the incredible work of our dedicated teachers and staff.
Approaching a delicate subject like family violence requires finesse, and I commend Conor, along with the educators and staff, for creating a safe space where these crucial conversations can unfold.
The dedication of our teachers to the well-being of our students is truly commendable
As the saying goes, “children are our future”, and my interactions with Conor, the students and the educators have only reinforced my belief in this sentiment.
Our local school community is a beacon of hope, resilience, and inspiration.
I am eager to spend more time within our schools, engaging with students and teachers alike, as we collectively shape the promising future of our electorate.
I extend my gratitude to Conor Pall for sharing his story, to the schools for their warm reception, and to the educators for their unwavering commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and nurturing environment.
Together, we are building a community that empowers, educates and uplifts, ensuring that the future we envision is not just bright, but also filled with compassion and understanding.
