Ipswich teenagers will be the next to hear an anti-violence message as a foundation, forged from grief, expands into Queensland.
The Pat Cronin Foundation, started in Melbourne following the “coward punch” death of 19-year-old Pat Cronin in 2016, is running a series of awareness seminars for high school students.
Foundation Director Matt Cronin, Pat’s father, said 700 students from Ipswich’s Bellbird Park State Secondary College would be the next Queensland group to take part in the Violence is Never Ok presentation, on September 8.
Mr Cronin said 350,000 teenagers nationwide had heard about the importance of managing anger and making safe choices, including 12,000 in south-east Queensland.
He said their tragedy had driven the family to ensure others were spared from the same ordeal, with a desire to make the foundation a truly national initiative.
“Every year, thousands of Australians end up in hospital because of assaults. One thoughtless act can cause lifelong damage – or cost a life.”
Mr Conin said the foundation was formed to give young people the tools to walk away from conflict before it turned into something far worse.
“The response from schools has been extraordinary, and it’s why we’re delivering programs nationwide. Right now we’re actively seeking assistance from the Queensland Government to extend the program locally.”
Bellbird Park’s Head of Year 9 Pippa West said the messages were particularly valuable for teenagers as they prepared to step into the social world and for lives beyond school.
“I read about the program and thought it was particularly relevant for students in Years 9 and 10 as they are at a critical stage in adolescent development,” Ms West said.
“Like many schools, we have also embraced this initiative because we are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment,” she said.
“Learning how to regulate emotions before they escalate into conflict or physical aggression are critical skills, and closely complement our Wellbeing Program.”
Learn more on the Foundation website.
