IF ANYONE understands the devastating impacts of family violence apart from victims themselves, it's the police.
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They see it every day.
Among those officers are Sergeant Shane Kervin and Senior Constable Michelle Neil, who are representing Echuca police in the Campaspe DASH.
For both of them, the DASH ticks boxes, professionally and personally.
“When given the opportunity to be involved, it was an easy choice,” Sgt Kervin said.
“It is an important message and I saw it as an opportunity to increase awareness and show my own personal support.”
Sgt Kervin, who is part of the Echuca-Moama Triathlon Club, and Snr Constable Neil, who is Echuca's Gay, Lesbian Liaison Officer (GLLO), deal with some form of domestic violence on a daily basis in their roles.
“The violence can come in many forms, not just physical,” Sgt Kervin said.
“Sometimes it is financial, social isolation or controlling behaviors. We respond to jobs, but we also have a role in breaking the cycle and providing ongoing support and referrals.”
While they said it was difficult to know what the true impact family violence had on the community, they agreed it was far reaching.
“It really can ruin lives, not just the primary victim, but all those exposed, including children and other family members,” Sgt Kervin said.
And that is why the pair has stepped up to the challenge to help stamp out domestic violence.
“There are multiple agencies in the community working towards a common goal of stamping out this form of violence and I hope that such events continue to drive awareness and show support to victims,” Sgt Kervin said.
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