for Children.

The overall goal is to raise the $22,000 that's needed to introduce Better Buddies into primary schools.

All primary schools in the shire and more than 60 businesses have registered their commitment to take part in the project.

ChillOut committee member Jim Culbertson said a small customer donation such as $2 on each transaction could make a meaningful and lasting change.

Mr Culbertson said 100 per cent of every dollar raised with this appeal stays in the Hepburn Shire and goes directly to the project. Donations of $2 and more are tax deductible.

According to the foundation, one in six students in Australia is bullied on a weekly basis and 85 per cent of children who observe school bullying do nothing.

With Better Buddies children learn the values of friendship, respect, care and, importantly, valuing differences in others to create safe and caring school communities.

Bullying can cause long-term health problems, low levels of wellbeing, low self-esteem, depression, substance abuse and suicide.

In 2008 more than 200 primary schools across Australia will introduce the new evidence-based edition of Better Buddies.

The appeal will continue until the Labour Day long weekend in March.

For further information contact Michael Brady 0412 177 669 or Jim Culbertson 0419 922 991.