Mansfield Shire took a strong step toward digital safety last week, with over 1100 local residents participating in the SayIT program’s cyber safety education sessions.
Renowned cyber safety expert Susan McLean led the sessions, covering vital topics including online grooming, cyberbullying, problematic gaming and the impacts of sharing explicit content.
Hosted at various locations across the shire, the sessions were tailored to young people, families, and educators, aiming to build a safer and more informed digital community.
Mayor Cr Steve Rabie praised the program’s reach and community-wide support.
“This initiative has empowered more than 1,100 Mansfield residents to make informed choices online,” he said.
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“Digital safety is a shared responsibility, and this week shows just how committed our community is to looking after one another.”
Over 100 educators from schools across the region took part in a specific professional learning session to ensure their staff were equipped with the tools and knowledge to ensure the safety of students.
Nicole Salmon, Principal of Mansfield Primary School, spoke to the program’s value for educators and students alike.
“SayIT has given our students real, age-appropriate insights into staying safe online," she said.
"The sessions were engaging and relevant, and our staff have walked away with practical tools to support students in this space."
Glenn Hood, Principal of Mansfield Steiner School, echoed the importance of the initiative.
“Susan McLean’s presentation was confronting in all the right ways,” said Mr Hood.
"It opened our students' eyes to the real risks online and helped start important conversations at school and at home."
