Centre Against Violence (CAV) have announced the internationally acclaimed Left Write Hook program is coming to the North East in April 2026, with events planned in both Benalla and Beechworth.

The initiative will bring two major opportunities to both communities.

First, public screenings of the award-winning documentary Left Write Hook will be held in Benalla and Beechworth, giving audiences an intimate and powerful look at the journeys of survivors who took part in the program.

Second, hands-on workshops will be offered in both towns, specifically designed for victim survivors of family and sexual violence to experience the transformative combination of writing and boxing that is at the heart of the program.

Left Write Hook is a research-informed, trauma-aware initiative that blends creative writing with non-contact boxing.

Developed for female-identifying and gender diverse survivors of childhood sexual abuse and complex trauma, the program creates a safe and supportive space where survivors can express themselves through writing and movement, finding new ways to regain strength, confidence, and connection.

CAV acknowledges the vision and generosity of the Kyamba Association for funding this initiative, and thanks Benalla Rural City Council and Indigo Shire Council for their commitment to bringing this ground-breaking program to our region.

CAV intake and therapeutic services manager, Lucy Lee, said Left Write Hook was unlike anything else.

“It creates a powerful space where survivors can tell their stories and reconnect with their bodies in ways that are safe, creative, and deeply healing,” she said.

“Family and sexual violence touch too many lives in our region.

“This program is about more than recovery; it is about giving people a sense of strength and choice and reminding them they are not alone.”

“To be able to bring this program to our local communities is a gift."

Founder and chief executive officer of Left Write Hook, Dr Donna Lyon said she was eager to share the program’s healing power with North East communities.

“These communities are among the first in regional Victoria to experience the power of our unique writing and boxing program, which gives survivors a safe space to rebuild strength, voice, and connection,” she said.

The public screenings will take place at Benalla on 20 April, 6.30pm and at Beechworth on 21 April, 6:30pm.

Details and ticket sales for these screenings will be announced in November 2025.

The hands-on workshops are free for participants and open for registrations now.

Victim survivors interested in taking part can register here: https://forms.office.com/r/eDSF5iq3MN.

For updates, visit centreagainstviolence.org.au.