Local Community, Respect & Equality Champion has a creative expression to prevent violence

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Geraldton based artist Phil Doncon is a Community, Respect and Equality (CRE) Community Champion.

The CRE project is a family violence prevention initiative managed by local family service organisation Desert Blue Connect. It forms part of the CRE Strategic Action Plan for the Prevention of Family Violence in Geraldton. 

Community Champions are local leaders who promote messages about family violence in Geraldton by being visible, approachable and attending awareness events and activities. 

Phil’s messages as a Community Champion are around utilising different forms of self-expression to help men deal with negative emotions “I’m a bloke, I get angry and frustrated, but when I do I actively seek out an outlet for those feelings, maybe hit the waves, punch out a painting or bust a move” Phil says. “As men it’s important for us to be able to find that form of expression that works for us, to enable us to process any negative emotions that come up in a healthy way. Violence is never ok.” 

Through his live art platform Paint Storm, Phil uses music, dance and live painting to engage audiences at schools and community events with messages of healthy expression, relationship skills and resilience.

At The Exhibition of Blank Canvases, at the Geraldton Yacht Club on Friday 1 December, you will be able to see Phil in action. He will be creating 12 large canvases in a high energy three hour show with music and dance. Phil’s work will also be on display at Art and Soul by the Sea on Marine Terrace from December 8. Information about the Community, Respect and Equality Project and local support services for those affected by family violence will be available at both events.

If you or someone you know is affected by family violence, local support services are available through Desert Blue Connect on 9964 2742 or Chrysalis House Women’s Refuge on 9964 2173. 

Information and counselling is also available over the phone from 1800 Respect (1800 737 732) or online at www.1800respect.org.au

For more information about the CRE Project and Community Champions, contact Margie Robinson at Desert Blue Connect on 9964 2742 or visit the CRE website www.communityrespectandequality.com.au.