Controversial White Ribbon Day jetski stunt goes ahead
A controversial jetski stunt to mark White Ribbon Day has gone ahead in a bid to raise awareness about gendered and family violence.
The plan for a flotilla to form the shape of a ribbon in Sydney Harbour came under scrutiny earlier this week, and the White Ribbon charity even distanced itself from the event, which was organised by NSW Maritime.
However, others in the family and sexual violence space have said the attention the parade has attracted should be used to move the conversation forward.
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Anti-violence charity White Ribbon staged a flotilla with 50 jetskis on Sydney Harbour this morning. 9News
"Well it's certainly got some attention," Full Stop Australia CEO Hayley Foster told 9news.com.au.
"I think those that are passionate in the space are trying to find soft entries.
"It is true that we need to find ways to engage the broader community, and men and boys who would not usually think about this issue," she added.
Foster, whose organisation supports people affected by sexual, domestic or family violence, said the next steps are crucial.
"Now that the attention is on this let's use it. What happens next is really important," she said.
The stunt had been criticised as 'tone-deaf' earlier this week but others in the space said it can spark a conversation.. 9News
"There are some really practical things that people can do: Lead by example and model respect in your relationships, call out when you see sexist and victim blaming behaviours.
"Reach out and support people you're worried about experiencing abuse or using abusive behaviour.
"Another really practical way that people can support these is to fund frontline services... It is about financial and community support to make sure services are available.
"Yes, have the big fanfare - but let's keep the conversation going," Foster said.
When the event was announced this week it was branded "tone-deaf" by the NSW Labor opposition, and White Ribbon Australia National Director Allan Ball confirmed the the charity did not organise it.
At the time of publication the fundraiser had reached $16,000 in donations.
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