Mayor Jenny Whitney said young people, parents of young adults and interested community
members throughout the region are invited to attend and hear Paul’s message about preventing
youth violence.

“In 2006 Paul Stanley tragically lost his son Matthew through a single punch at a party,” she said.

“Since then Paul has dedicated his life to educating students from around Australia to be more
aware of the dangers of violence and how to avoid situations that could be dangerous.

“Paul’s powerful and heartfelt story will touch many people’s hearts and prompt serious
conversations within the community.

“The Matthew Stanley Foundation works closely with the Queensland Police and the community to educate the public – specifically young people – about preventing youth violence through
campaigns such as the One Punch Can Kill and Walk Away Chill Out (WACO) campaign.

“Mackay Crime Prevention Officers will co-present with Paul to ensure parents and community
groups are better equipped to provide a safe environment for celebrations so any party they host
will be remembered for all the right reasons.

“They will cover topics such as preparing for and dealing with the situations that can occur at a
teenage party, the legal ramifications that may follow and being prepared well before teenagers
arrive at your home.

“Paul will also speak at Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville State High Schools during his visit to
the region.

“This is a great opportunity for our young people to hear effective ways of preventing youth
violence in the Whitsunday region,” she said.

Paul will be at Cannonvale Library on the 2nd September at 6.00 pm and Bowen Library on
the 3rd September at 5.30 pm.

For more information or to make a booking, please phone

Cannonvale Library: 4946 1366 or
Bowen Library: 4761 3670

The events are free and light refreshments will be served.

Ends

For media enquiries, contact:
Kate Lennox, Communications Manager
Phone: 07 4945 0614, 0427 458 369 or Email: kate.lennox@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au