True Brothers Social Club SW donates $1,000 to Bunbury's Waratah Support Centre

A club for motorcycle and car enthusiasts who organise events to raise money for charity, True Brothers Social Club SW ran The Waratah Run in late February that took riders throughout Wilyabrup.

All proceeds from the ride went to Waratah to assist them with providing specialised intervention, counselling and support services for people who have experienced sexual assault, abuse and/or family domestic violence.

"We always try to raise money for local charities throughout the South West because the money goes locally and not just to a bigger company," Club Secretary, Sandra Bland said.

Established in Bunbury in 2019, True Brothers Social Club SW are passionate about helping disadvantaged children and victims of domestic violence against both men and women.

Waratah Chief Executive Officer Juliana Hussain said donations were a great way to show the community that the South West hasn't forgotten about them.

"This money will go towards clothes for victims of sexual assault as well as taxi vouchers so they can attend counselling sessions. Our crisis department offers instant support to women who have just been through a sexual assault. At the hospital, their clothes are taken to forensics for testing. It makes a big difference to them that someone considered to be there with replacement clothes."

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, one in five West Australian women report having experienced partner violence since the age of 15. In the past month, the Australian Parliament has been rocked with numerous allegations of sexual assault, starting with the allegation from Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins revealing she had been raped by a colleague in a ministerial office.

Ms Hussain said the donation was even more important due to clients being traumatised by what was currently happening in the news.

"They're having nightmares and not being able to sleep and are then expected to carry on with everyday life."

Ms Hussain has been in the position for 16 weeks and is working on rebuilding the center's profile and improving their presence in the community.

"We want the community to know that we acknowledge that this is a difficult time that could be causing negative impacts to survivors."

If you are in need of help, call Waratah on 1800 737 732.