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The Alannah and Madeline Foundation announced today that Her
Royal Highness, Crown Princess Mary of Denmark had accepted an
invitation to become its International Patron.
In making the announcement, the Foundation said Crown Princess
Mary was pleased to accept the invitation in light of the Foundation’s
work in helping children who are victims of violence or sudden
family loss, as well as with its campaign to eradicate bullying
amongst young people.
“I am delighted to accept the position of International Patron
of the Foundation and will strongly support its work and endeavours,”
she said.
"The Foundation was established in response to the Port Arthur
tragedy that occurred in Tasmania, the place of my own childhood.
I am encouraged by the strength and devotion of those that worked
hard to ensure that 'good' could rise out of tragedy. The invaluable
work of the Foundation clearly illustrates that this is possible.
“Children have the right to feel safe in our schools and our
community. The work of the Foundation in helping young children
who are victims of violence, or bullying is a fine example of
helping to realise a better society for everyone.”
Crown Princess Mary said bullying was “a cruel and senseless act”
which could lead to life-long personal problems for many of its
victims, their families, as well as the perpetrators. “It has
no place in society and every endeavour should be made to remove
it from social behaviour.”
The Chairman of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation, John Bertrand
AM, today was “extremely pleased and grateful” of Crown Princess
Mary’s acceptance of patronage.
The Crown Princess of Denmark will join the Prime Minister, John
Howard, who is National Patron and the Victorian Premier, Steve
Bracks, as the State Patron.
“Her support and presence will enhance our endeavours to build
the Foundation and expand its work,” said Mr. Bertrand.
“A child is reported abused, or neglected every two minutes in
Australia and one in six children are being bullied in the school
playground every week.
“This should not be tolerated and we hope our programs will contribute
to overcoming these alarming figures.
“It is a national tragedy that bullying still exists in schools
today and the Foundation’s Better Buddies program is one of the
nation’s first national initiatives to help overcome this insidious
social problem.
“Bullying affects not only the student, but his or her family.
It is has an effect on the whole community,” he said.
Mr. Bertrand went on to say that everyone at the Foundation looked
forward to working together with Crown Princess Mary and to her
involvement in their work.
For media interviews, contact The Alannah and Madeline Foundation
on (03) 9697 0666.
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