Jo Banner is a well known face on the running tracks and trails around the Tomaree Peninsula.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But while she feels safe to run by herself, it is the concern others share for her safety that makes her aware there is still a long way to go when it comes to ending violence against women.
“The feeling that as women we need to be more aware, more careful when we go anywhere, to let people know where we’re going and what we’re doing just in case, that’s all part of this big discussion that is being had about violence against women,” Mrs Banner said.
To raise awareness and to keep the conversation rolling about violence against women, Mrs Banner and friends Jaci Richards and Angie Physick started Reclaim the Run four years ago.
A spin-off to the Reclaim the Night movement, the annual Nelson Bay event shines a light on the social issue of women feeling they need to be in a group when exercising in public in order to feel safe.
On the surface, it is about gathering women together to go for an easy run, jog or walk through Nelson Bay.
But on a deeper level, its aim is to create awareness and start a conversation about violence against women and to rally the community around the issue.
The fourth annual Reclaim the Run will be held at d’Albora Marina from 6pm on Friday, October 26.
Port Stephens MP Kate Washington, mayor Ryan Palmer, Salamander Bay Rotary president Ina George, Run Against Violence campaigner Kirrily Dear and White Ribbon ambassador Roger Yeo will attend and speak before walkers and runners complete the course.
Walkers go to Fly Point and back to the marina while runners go further to Little Beach and back. Reclaim the Run is for women only. However, male friends, family and supporters act as marshals for the event.
Organisers are selling Reclaim the Run buffs (bandannas) this year with funds raised going to the Yacaaba Centre and Run Against Violence.
They cost $12.50 each and are available from Bay Doctors in the cinema mall, Nelson Bay Harriettes and Tomaree Trotters.
After the run an event will be held at Evviva Cafe and Bar. The cost to attend is $20. Tickets are available on the Reclaim the Run – The Bay Facebook page.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
