There were teddy bears galore at Wolseley Park last Thursday when Gunnedah Family Support held its popular Teddy Bear’s Picnic.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The annual event draws together schools, preschools, day care centres and local health and community organisations to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect.
Held during National Child Protection Week, the picnic forms part of the National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN) campaign.
It brings much-needed attention to the plight of those who cannot speak for themselves and emphasises that the safety and wellbeing of Australians is everyone’s business.
Wolseley Park was awash with colour during the picnic, with children taking part in obstacle courses involving sack races, egg and spoon races, the colourful parachute and a secret tunnel.
There was also face-painting, craft activities and story telling by Paint the Town REaD.
Hundreds of school and preschool children attended the day, while older high school and primary students helped with other activities.
Everyone enjoyed a sausage sizzle under the trees cooked by Gunnedah Rotary Club, and the STACSA van was also there.
Gunnedah Family Support manager Robyn Gallen said the aim of the event was to help build a safer community for our children.
“It’s about building a strong community with a view to everybody knowing about child protection issues and that it’s everybody’s business,” Mrs Gallen said.
“We can all play a part.”
Gunnedah Family Support has spent the past six months planning the popular event and was “amazed” at the response.