In 1995, the Brighton Rotary Club became keenly aware of the alarming extent of family violence in the community after its attention was drawn to the death of a young child. As a then all-male club, it adopted the slogan: “Men taking responsibility for men’s behaviour” and took active steps that would help make a difference.

Since then the club has:

• established a non-profit company to deliver and support men’s behaviour change programs and the safety of participant’s partners and children
• sponsored research into the short term outcomes of men’s behaviour change programs with Monash University, through support of Australian Rotary Health
• raised over $1,000,000 to support these initiatives
• has now been joined by the whole Rotary district of 69 clubs to help end family violence.

Violence Free Families (VFF) was formed in 2009 to focus in more dedicated ways on the prevention of family violence. Essential to our ongoing work is the longitudinal research project with Monash University, looking into the long term outcomes of men’s behaviour change program and whether or not they do make a real difference to families and children’s lives.

Outcomes of this research help direct scarce resources and helps VFF lobby governments, of all persuasions, and philanthropic funds to invest in family violence prevention

We invite you to share in our vision – a vision of “violence free families”.

I am looking for two Rotary Club of Berwick members who would like to get involved with the transition of the Violent Free Families program into our local community. Please contact David Button preferably by email: david.button@rotaryberwick.org or text (because I don't answer my phone when I am working)  0409191822. There is an in person meeting on Saturday, August 12th with the current Board of VFF.

When you step out of your comfort zone, you may encounter feelings of nervousness, anxiety, or fear because you are venturing into unknown territory. However, real growth and learning occur in these moments of discomfort and uncertainty. By facing new experiences, you may discover hidden talents, develop resilience, and better understand yourself and the world around you.

From my experience, being put in some challenging and sometimes uncomfortable positions has made me more capable and brought people around me to help me grow in areas I didn't even know I had a talent for.

You have the potential to grow, learn, and appreciate various aspects of life. Embracing new experiences, seeking knowledge, and being open to personal development can lead to a fulfilling and enriched existence. Learning and appreciating the world around you can be transformative and open up opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. Remember that life is a journey of continuous learning and growth, and embracing it with a positive mindset can lead to a more meaningful and rewarding life.

Are you ready to get out of your comfort zone and contribute to your club's success? Do you have hidden talents that even you don't know you have? Why not join a Committee (preferably the Public Image Task Force) and get some hands-on experience? We all want to get more out of our Rotary membership! The best way to do that is to get a job that may turn a commitment into a passion. Contact David Button at david.button@rotaryberwick.org for more information or see me at a meeting.