Parishioners took part in a White Balloon Day awareness event, which aimed to show the church was 100 per cent behind creating a safe environment for all children. 

White Balloon Day is Australia’s largest campaign dedicated to preventing child sexual assault.  

“The church as a whole has recognised the part it has played in the past regarding this topic,” Father Robert Murphy said. 

“I think it is important we never forget the past, but we also look to the present and future to ensure a safe place for all children. It’s important to raise awareness of this issue.”

Activities on the day included drawing white balloons on the path outside of St Peter’s, as well as cutting out white balloons from cardboard and placing one’s name in the middle to show one’s support of the initiative. 

St Peter’s has supported the town’s White Balloon Day march in recent years and this year decided to go one step further by creating its own awareness event.

Now in its 21st year, White Balloon Day unites communities, businesses, schools and organisations to break the silence on the issue and make a commitment to protecting children.

Visit https://whiteballoonday.com.au/ for more information.