Flight Puts Focus on Preventing Violence

A WOMAN who suffered serious abuse in her youth is visiting regional Australian towns to give a voice to those who haven't yet found theirs.

Sexually abused as a child and in her teenage years, Marie Louise, 46, has taken to the skies in a two-seater plane to travel Australia as an ambassador for the Bravehearts and White Ribbon foundations.

For a long time she struggled to come to terms with her experience, but said she found her voice in the past five years and wanted to raise the profile of campaigns battling violence against women and children.

"Bravehearts is Australia's leading child protection advocate and White Ribbon is Australia's campaign to stop violence against women," Ms Louise said.

"Violence against women and children are universal issues that I personally feel very passionate about, and that need a lot of attention.

"The ripple effect of such abuse is effecting each and every one of us.

"Bringing light to these fantastic organisations and education programs will support individuals everywhere to find their voice of power. I believe until awareness is awakened there can't be change."

It is her aim to raise $5000 for the organisations. Donations can be made at mycause.

Ms Louise will fly to Busselton and stay there from May 11-13 before travelling to Augusta the following day.

Read the story | See the campaign