NSW Police have expanded their Domestic Violence Awareness Cup initiative into the Hunter region, using rugby league to spark conversations about family violence prevention among young people.
The event was held at Lakeside Sports Complex in Raymond Terrace on Thursday 4 June, bringing together around 150 students aged 15 and 16 from six local high schools — Callaghan College, Cardiff High School, Francis Greenway High School, Hunter River High School, Mount View High School and Rutherford Technology High School. The day featured a round-robin rugby league competition alongside community stalls offering information and resources from local support agencies.
Originally established by the South Coast Police District’s Crime Prevention Unit in 2023, the Cup expanded to the Hunter region and the St George area this year. The event is supported by the NRL, DrinkWise and the local Liquor Accord. Newcastle Knights NRLW player Yasmin Meakes and NRL legend and welfare officer Andrew Ryan also attended.
Minister for Hunter, Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said sport provided a powerful environment to raise awareness about domestic violence with young people.
“Sport brings people together like little else — it’s where we can have honest conversations about respect and healthy relationships, especially with young people watching,” she said.
“NSW Police is responding to domestic violence at record levels, but just as important is stopping it before it starts — in schools, clubs and communities.”
