In the past fortnight, two of Sydney’s “elite” have had apprehended violence orders (AVO) filed against them.
Anthony Bell is the head of one of the country’s biggest advisory and accounting firms. His clients include former Australian cricket team captain Michael Clark and co-host of the Today show Karl Stefanovic. He won the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race last year.
Now, Bell has been served with an AVO banning him from stalking, threatening and approaching his wife, television presenter Kelly Landry. He’s not allowed to go near her after drinking or taking illicit substances.
Then there's former spin bowler for the Australian cricket team, Stuart MacGill. He was known as having the best strike rate of any modern leg-spin bowler; also for his morals. In 2004, he refused to tour Zimbabwe with the Australian Cricket Team citing moral reasons. In 2011, he refused to endorse KFC - a "gold partner" of Cricket Australia — telling Crikey, "It’s just wrong in so many ways."
MacGill, too, has been issued with an AVO against his girlfriend Julie Singleton. He must not approach Singleton unless through a lawyer, and he's not allowed within 100 metres of her home in Vaucluse, in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
Perhaps these incidents are a sign of a deeper problem.
Domestic violence doesn't always look the way we picture it. Sometimes the horror is muted by the soft wool carpets and solid walls of harbourside mansions. The desperation is felt alongside millions of dollars and gifts in Tiffany-blue boxes. The danger is present away from flashing cameras and fancy cocktail evenings.
Top Comments
It would be a good message to send Rosie Batty et al, that domestic violence can touch anyone, and it isn't only females that are victims. Not by a long shot.
I Agree Violence and Abuse has No Gender, Economic or Cultural Preference it Doesn't Discriminate it touches all involved. If People Need Help whether a Victim or Perpetrator Get it.