The Rotary Club of Pinjarra recently had the pleasure of welcoming Ms Megan McKrill from OVIS Community Services as our guest speaker. OVIS is the primary provider of Family and Domestic Violence (FDV) services in the Peel region, with a strong commitment to creating a future where everyone feels safe from violence and abuse. Their mission is to empower individuals, foster meaningful connections, and break the cycle of violence in our community.
OVIS offers a comprehensive range of services, from crisis accommodation to innovative prevention programs, ensuring they remain at the forefront of local efforts to build a safer tomorrow.
The roots of OVIS date back to the mid-1970s when Patricia Thomas, then Chairperson of Mandurah Health Centre, along with Joy Carter, Maureen Sullivan, and Rev. Brian Newing, recognised the urgent need for a women’s refuge in the Peel region. This journey, which began in late 1975, culminated in the establishment of the first purpose-built refuge in 1989, officially opened in 1990 as Pat Thomas Memorial Community House.
OVIS continues its legacy of care by running the Pinjarra Women’s Centre (PWC), an unfunded yet vital program located in the heart of Pinjarra. The PWC serves as a place-based hub for women and children, offering a soft entry into services. With a full-time advocate on site, the centre provides support through one-on-one assessments, drop-in services, and group workshops. In addition, the PWC offers a range of community-focused activities, including groups, yoga, sound healing, creative craft, drum circles, playgroup, a community pantry, and a community library. The centre also provides a computer and printer free for the community to use, ensuring everyone has access to essential resources.
Family and domestic violence is a pervasive issue in society, with women—particularly from Indigenous communities—being disproportionately affected. Alarmingly, there has been a recent increase in violence against older individuals by family members and acquaintances. Family and domestic violence manifests in many forms, from overt physical, sexual, and verbal abuse to more insidious tactics like social isolation, financial control, and coercive behaviours.
OVIS is dedicated to supporting women and children impacted by Family and domestic violence. OVIS helps women remain in their homes, offering risk assessments, safety planning, and even financial assistance to secure their homes. Through education, support, and personalised guidance, OVIS empowers women to develop strategies to protect themselves and their children, all while making informed decisions about their future.
For more information on the vital work of OVIS Community Services, please visit their website at www.ovis.org.au or contact them directly at (08) 9520 8627.
Megan was formally thanked for her talk to our members by Robyn Brown.