A sea of blue across Cessnock in support of Dolly

Published on 08 May 2020

Cessnock City Council was awash with blue today in support of Do It For Dolly Day, a day to come together to celebrate kindness and unite in taking a stand against bullying. Council vehicles were adorned with blue bows, as were the gates of Council’s Works Depot and Waste Management Centre. Council staff joined in by wearing something blue.

In January 2018, the nation was stunned by the untimely death of 14-year-old Dolly Everett, a victim of relentless bullying. Dolly’s family established the not-for-profit Dolly’s Dream to act as a voice for those who can’t speak for themselves, and prevent bullying in all its forms. Blue was Dolly’s favourite colour and by creating a sea of blue Dolly’s family hope it reminds people to be kind to those around them.

Council’s involvement stemmed from a member of Council’s Works and Operations team member Andrew McNamara. Andrew felt it was an opportunity to raise more awareness about the importance of kindness.

“A cause such as Do It For Dolly Day is something that needs as much exposure as possible. Things can be misunderstood in messages such as emails or chat rooms which can be the start of cyberbullying.  Bullying should not be acceptable behaviour by anyone in our lives”.

Council’s General Manager, Lotta Jackson said in times of social distancing, it’s important to find ways to come together as a community and lend a voice to issues that matter.

“This is a timely reminder that cyberbullying can be just as harmful as other forms of bullying. I encourage everyone to speak with their children and grandchildren about Dolly's story and to stand with us in saying NO to bullying”.

For more information on Dolly’s Dream and Do It For Dolly Day, visit the Dolly's Dream website.

If you or anyone you know is struggling emotionally or having a hard time, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.