He will be sentenced in March for this heinous crime.

To say I was disturbed while reading this news report is an understatement.

With Friday marking White Ribbon Day - an initiative that aims to prevent men's violence against women - it is about time we did more than just talk about this problem.

Serious action needs to be taken because the message just isn't getting out there.

On a daily basis one will typically read or view some form of news item that is reporting on a women being raped, bashed or stalked by a male.

Now, I'm not saying women don't do this to men, because they do.

However, the cases involving men being violent towards women far outnumber the situation in reverse.

Women should not have to feel scared to walk alone day or not.

Women should not have to be scared in their own homes.

Women should not have to feel as though these sorts of actions are their fault.

White Ribbon Day is a fantastic initiative and there is absolutely no doubt it has made a positive impact.

Here in Leeton we've had men band together as part of the day to say they won't tolerate any form of violence against women.

That will also be happening again on Friday afternoon.

However, in saying that, I do feel a some sadness that we even need a day like this at all.

In a perfect world none of us would hurt each other.

Unfortunately, that is not the case, so these days are necessary.

It's important we all take a united stand against violence of all kinds.

There is absolutely no room for it in society or in our community.

Those that commit these acts should have the book thrown at them.

There should be no loop hole or room for them to worm their way out of serious charges.

Not only do we as a community need to be united against domestic and all forms of violence, but the courts need to do their part and put offenders away for a long time so they learn it’s not acceptable behaviour.