Every year on November 25, White Ribbon Day encourages people to stand up and say domestic violence against women is not okay.

Hunter Valley Local Area Command Acting Superintendent Steve Clarke said days like White Ribbon Day are extremely important.

“It’s about the whole community acknowledging that domestic violence is an issue,” he said.

“I think it’s really important the men in the community stand up.

“And, that victims know the services available.”

The Muswellbrook activities began at 11am in Simpson Park.

Rod and Kim Eadie from Hunter Central Academy presented a self-defence demonstration, showing women how to use martial arts to protect themselves.

Mr Eadie said he was asked by local police to show some Jiu Jitsu which can be used as self-defence.

“And also how women can be empowered, and confidently use their techniques to prevent an attack,” he said.

This was followed by a community barbecue cooked by Muswellbrook Men's Shed members.

After lunch, those present walked along Bridge Street to Muswellbrook library for a balloon release.

Inside the library, Muswellbrook High School students' artwork from the Love Bites program was on display.

Love Bites is a successful school-based domestic and family violence and sexual assault prevention program.

Two interactive education workshops are followed by creative workshops where students display what they have learnt by painting and creating short community advertisement style skits.