He, along with his fellow event organisers, wants to help break the silence around violence towards women.

“Violence against women is never a private issue,” he said.

“We are holding this event to help break the silence around violence, to raise awareness of the issue to bring violence against women to an end.

“We want people to know that violence against women is never acceptable and never the victim’s fault.

“People need to know that they can make a difference. Bringing an end to men’s violence against women will take a whole of community approach, so if you see something you should definitely say something.”

The White Ribbon golf day is at Worrigee Links Golf Club on Saturday November 25 and for the second year running Mr Hedger has joined forces with SportsPower Nowra to sponsor and organise the event.

The White Ribbon Campaign (WRC) is a global movement of men and boys working to end male violence against women and girls

The golf day will raise awareness and much needed funds to help end men’s violence against women.

All funds raised will help schools, workplaces and the community run programs to prevent violence.

“Domestic violence against women is sadly an everyday occurrence and alcohol remains a contributing factor in many of these cases”, Mr Hedger the manager of St Vincent’s Hospital Alcohol and Drug Service said.

“No communities are immune to domestic violence with the rates even higher in rural and regional areas.

“Murder is at the pointy end of a broad spectrum of violence against women.

“A spectrum that encompasses financial, verbal, emotional, psychological, physical and sexual abuse, as well as workplace harassment. They all form part of a devastating cycle of violence.

“The women lost are not just statistics – they are wives, mothers, daughters, grand-daughters, sisters, aunts, nieces, friends and colleagues.

“Most importantly, they are people, and the impact of the violence perpetrated against them is widespread and long-standing. Not to mention the impact of witnessing the violence has on children.”

Over $700 worth of prizes will be available on the day with extra novelty events planned.

For anybody lucky enough to hit the ‘perfect tee shot’ (hole in one) on the sixth hole will drive away in a brand new car kindly donated by Nowra City Holden.

Last year’s  ‘Champions’ of the Men Against Violence perpetual trophy Peter and Lyn Loveday will be out to defend their title in what is expected to be a large field.

All visitors with a Golf Australia handicap are very welcome and encouraged to support this initiative.

Competition fees are $15 for members and $25 for visitors. The event will be a 4BBB stableford medley with a singles in conjunction.

To book contact Worrigee Links Golf Club pro shop on 44217430.

Those who wish to support the critical work of White Ribbon Australia in the prevention of men’s violence against women can also make a tax deductible donation at www.whiteribbon.org.au/donate.

Alternatively, donations can be made at the golf club on the day.

If you are experiencing violence or suspect someone else is, please contact 1800 RESPECT for advice and support. In an emergency, call the police on 000.

For assistance on alcohol and other drug concerns contact the local health service on 1300 652 226 during business hours or alternatively for advice and support contact the Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 422 599.