RECLAIM the run was held last Friday at Nelson Bay with over 150 runners and walkers participating.

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The run started at d’Albora Marinas at Nelson Bay and the runners and walkers heard guest speakers, Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington, Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer, Kirrily Dear the founder of Reclaim the Run, Reclaims local coordinator Jo Banner and local White ribbon campaigner Roger Yeo.

Singlets and t-shirts were on sale raising over $1400 in vital funds for the Yacaaba Centre.

Among the runners was Port Stephens Councillor Sarah Smith who told News Of The Area “I have participated in Reclaim the Run every year, since it started, it’s getting bigger and better and starting conversations which gets people talking and letting victims of domestic violence know that there are people there to help them.”

“What has occurred with this event in Port Stephens is quite unique, the enthusiasm and support of the Port Stephens community is something locals can be incredibly proud of,” said Kirrily Dear.

Port Stephens Member Kate Washington told News Of The Area, “It is amazing to see such a great turnout raising awareness, and reducing the stigma attached to domestic violence, which is so important.”

She believes the fight for equality is one that women still need to win which is linked to domestic violence.

“Everyone that is here is part of a movement, one that it getting bigger around the state. We need to look at the root cause of domestic violence and address it; inequality and gender pay gap are a part of the problem,” she said.

Mayor Ryan Palmer recognised the strength and courage it takes for those impacted by domestic violence to be a part of the event.

“Violence against women is never OK, we need to shine a light, start conversations and send a clear message,” he said.

By Marian SAMPSON