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The Moorabool News – 12 April, 2022 Page 7
Consent is an agreement
The month of April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Victoria Police issued a media release last week outlining that all sex offences and child abuse are serious, and everyone is entitled to protection under the law. “We will always respond to reports, irrespective how long ago the incident occurred. It is never too late to report,” the release read. Consent is an agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity. In Victoria, the law says both parties must freely agree to the sexual act for there to be consent. Consent can be withdrawn at any time, for any reason, including no reason. Did you know? There are circumstances in which someone is automatically considered as unable to give consent. These include where someone is: - drunk or drug affected - mistaken about the identity of the other person - asleep or unconscious - unable to understand the sexual nature of what is happening. Consent can also be withdrawn at any time. It is never too late to make a report. Victoria Police have dedicated specialist detectives who investigate all forms of sexual offences. To make a report, contact your local police station of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT). If you need support, please contact ☎ Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800 ☎ Sexual Assault Crisis Line - 1800 806 292 ☎ 1800 Respect - 1800 737 732 If it is an emergency or if you’re in immediate danger, always contact Triple Zero (000). For more information, visit https://www.police.vic.gov.au/reporting-sexual-offences
Division 2 winners - Specialist Hoops Bacchus Marsh Mixed Team - Brody Shaw, Billy Feben, Darcy Drew, David Jenkins, Jason Watts, Harper Button and Shakaya Curtis. Photo - submitted
A special tournament win
By Lachlan Ellis The region’s first all abilities basketball tournament was nothing but net, with six teams competing for an inaugural championship. Specialist Hoops Basketball held its very first all abilities tournament at Cobblebank Stadium on Sunday April 2, coinciding with Autism Awareness Day on April 2. Both mixed and non-mixed teams played within three Divisions, with finals held to crown the winners of Divisions 1, 2 and 3. Bacchus Marsh's very own Specialist Hoops Mixed Team won two hard-fought victories from three tough matches, putting them into the Division 2 final against Specialist Hoops Melton – Grey Boys. And in the end, it was Bacchus Marsh’s team that came out on top.
Coach John McVie said playing in a formal tournament meant a lot to the disability community, and the growth of inclusive basketball. "It was an amazing day. It was the first tournament for most of the participants, and we are all glad that we could be part of the experience.” Mr McVie said he was looking forward to making this a regular event for Specialist Hoops. “Creating more safe and accessible opportunities for people living with disabilities within the Moorabool Shire is something that Specialist Hoops prides themselves on.” Specialist Hoops is always looking for people willing to try a new sport and work in a different environment. If you or someone you know is interested, please email info@ specialisthoops.org.au.
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