THE Luke Batty Foundation and Mornington Freemasons are joining forces to combat family violence.
Lodge Master Edy Wilfling said the Freemasons had been supporting community groups on the peninsula for 125 years and wanted to raise $125,000 for the Luke Batty Foundation, which was established last year after his tragic death.
“Everyone in Australia was hugely affected by the manner in which Luke was killed and communities from far and wide responded generously by sending his mum, Rosie, hundreds of cards, beautiful flowers, and donations large and small,” he said.
Now, Lodge members have created “Lewis the Bear” to assist in fund raising efforts. “We wanted to develop a symbol that is warm, friendly and that people of all ages can relate to, as well as creating long-term awareness of domestic violence,” Mr Wilfling said.
Support is also coming from View Club, women’s networking groups, and local businesses keen to support the Luke Batty Foundation and raise awareness of family violence.
Mr Wilfling said he had spoken with Ms Batty – Australian of the Year 2015 – and said she was thrilled to have support from Freemasons. “Through education, advocacy and campaigning, the Luke Batty Foundation will raise community awareness and put pressure on government organisations until family violence is no longer a subject that only happens ‘behind closed doors’ and current statistics are dramatically reduced,” he said.
