This story comes from Julie's visit to the north in 2014.
At the Christmas Event in Weilmoringle I came across a very innovative initiative of the Walgett police. It is a digital van that can be taken to all sorts of places and functions to allow the kids, young people and police officers to spend some time together in fun activities. One of the aims of the initiative is to help break down the barriers between police and the kids.
The van has been purchased and equipped by a number of grants and sponsorships and is currently servicing a number of small communities all around the Walgett area.
If the reaction of the Weilmoringle kids is anything to go by this is a real winner and talking to the officers involved they are getting great responses where ever they go.
I was very impressed with the enthusiasm of the police to embrace this new idea and commit resources into making it happen. It's a great way to break down entrenched "battle lines" and a reminder to us all to keep thinking "outside the box".
Julie Greig
At the Christmas Event in Weilmoringle I came across a very innovative initiative of the Walgett police. It is a digital van that can be taken to all sorts of places and functions to allow the kids, young people and police officers to spend some time together in fun activities. One of the aims of the initiative is to help break down the barriers between police and the kids.
The Glyaali Van is set up with 6 big screens that fold along the sides of the vans and allow the kids to play games in groups or singly. The van is also equipped with a BBQ to feed the kids and the officers tell me they are experts in turning out pancakes for breakfast sessions. There is also lots of sporting gear for those wanting to play physical games.
The van has been purchased and equipped by a number of grants and sponsorships and is currently servicing a number of small communities all around the Walgett area.
If the reaction of the Weilmoringle kids is anything to go by this is a real winner and talking to the officers involved they are getting great responses where ever they go.
I was very impressed with the enthusiasm of the police to embrace this new idea and commit resources into making it happen. It's a great way to break down entrenched "battle lines" and a reminder to us all to keep thinking "outside the box".
Julie Greig
An excellent initiative, there needs to be more of these with support from big business (without advertising themselves)
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