Domestic Violence statistics show that incidents are higher in rural and regional areas than in cities and that last year there were over 140,000 police call-outs to incidents of domestic violence in NSW alone.

Thirty men, women and children rallied at Roberts Park to take part in the inaugural ‘Wheel Barrow Challenge’

The challenge consisted of around 30 participants, three wheelbarrows with two for runners and one for walkers. There were also some fun events such as the water relay and barrow cricket both providing a great laugh for all participants and onlookers. 

Organiser Ros Stewart, from Harden’s Hard Rock Gym said that she was very pleased with the first White Ribbon event. 

“Fighting the war on domestic violence is a serious subject and not to be considered lightly so when men, woman and children make a stand together that's a good start.” Mrs Stewart said. “Men and Women need to be starting the conversation at every opportunity if we are to effect change.  The time for change is now with too many suffering the effects of domestic violence.”

The event took shape with much tongue in cheek rivalry between the usual suspects Adam Wade, Scott Chesworth, John Hill, Danny Flanery and Glenn Howe with speculation who had best lap time pushing the barrow around the 840m track.

There were also allegations of Wheel barrow tampering and interference during the water relay event. Biggest effort of the day goes to young Beau Abnett who put in a huge effort adding to the massive lap tally. By the end of the day the combined effort of 102.48km had been completed. 

“There was $410 raised on the day and people can still donate on the White Ribbon Australia website.” Mrs Stewart said. 

“A big thanks to Flemings Property Service for sponsoring the bbq and MIssion Australia for helping.us to get the event off the ground.”