Published: 23 November 2011

Woollahra Mayor Susan Wynne braved freezing conditions on Wednesday 23 November to complete an ocean swim in support of the White Ribbon Campaign.

With the support of fellow swimmers Andrew O'Keefe (Channel 7 personality and Chairman of the White Ribbon Foundation), Gary Meyers and Rachael Elkaim, the Mayor completed 30 laps of Redleaf Pool.

The swim raised funds for the White Ribbon Campaign to stop violence against women.

Council staff and members of the public gathered at the poolside to cheer on the swimmers and to swear online to never tolerate or act violently against women.

“I took on the challenge to send a clear message to the community - that violence against women is unacceptable and we must take public action to challenge attitudes and behaviours,” she said.

“If we are to change the way our society responds to this issue, and prevent violence against women from occurring, we must speak out. We must take public action. We must not remain silent.

“I am proud that I have done my bit to help the White Ribbon Campaign.”

In Australia, statistics show that one in four women will be assaulted or abused in her lifetime. These women are our mothers, our girlfriends, our wives, our daughters, our colleagues and our friends.

Council has white ribbons for sale at the Customer Service points for $2 which the public can buy in support of White Ribbon Day on Friday 25 November.

The Mayor will also host a White Tie Event on 24 November from 4:30pm - 6:30pm.

White Ribbon Ambassador Phil Lambert will give a short speech while drinks and canapés are served on the terrace.

Residents are encouraged to wear a white tie or something white to show their support.

To RSVP phone 9391 7166 or email community@woollahra.nsw.gov.au

If you would like to support the Mayor's swim contact communications@woollahra.nsw.gov.au

For more information about the White Ribbon campaign visit www.whiteribbon.org.au

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