WIMMERA residents banded together on Friday to take a stand against violence against women and children.
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More than 200 people marched from Horsham Aquatic Centre to May Park during the city's annual White Ribbon Walk Against Violence.
Wimmera White Ribbon Committee chairman Justin Amor said the movement continued to gain momentum in the region.
"We're really pleased with the turn-out. It's more than double last year's march," he said.
"It's also pleasing to see the wide array of people, from the hospital, the police, council, service organisations and schools.
"Hopefully they can take back the message to their workplaces and share it with their friends and families.
"We want people to understand that violence is not acceptable."
Mr Amor said the committee decided to elect Wimmera ambassadors this year to champion the White Ribbon message.
The inaugural ambassadors are Grampians Integrated Family Violence Committee region integration co-ordinator Ross Anders, Horsham chief executive Peter Brown and Legal Aid family lawyer Slav Subbotin.
Horsham Mayor Mark Radford, Horsham police Acting Superintendent Trevor Ashton and Acting Inspector Brendan Broadbent addressed the crowd at May Park.
Cr Radford said family violence was a major issue for the Wimmera.
"People should not feel frightened or ashamed to seek professional help if they need it," he said.
"I call on the men of our community to be good husbands, partners and fathers and to love and protect the women and children in their lives."
Mr Ashton outlined Horsham police's proactive campaign to understand the effect of family violence on the the community.
"About 18 months ago we hit an apex of reporting and we have gone about addressing it ever since," he said.
"I have absolutely no doubt family violence is under-reported throughout the Wimmera."
"As police and a community we need to continue to encourage women to come forward."
Mr Ashton also called on men to stand up and take responsibility.
"It's a huge concern that we continue to see so many women and children affected by violence," he said.
"It's unacceptable to have this happen in our community and we need to take action."
Mr Amor said violence against women was a whole-of-community issue and encouraged people to discuss it with their families, friends and colleagues.
"We ask that you visit the White Ribbon website and take the oath," he said.
"By doing this, you will be making a promise to never commit, excuse or remain silence against violence against women."
White Ribbon Day will be recognised nationally tomorrow.
People can visit http://www.whiteribbon.org.au/ for more information or to take the oath.