December 2018
For the third year in a row, our BACKUP for Life Expo was a resounding success. With more stallholders than ever before, the range of services, opportunities, and new directions for former and transitioning police was extraordinary. Attendee numbers were also up, and there was a high attendance rate from people who had never been to an Expo before. The good news seems to be spreading!
Talking to the dedicated team of staff and volunteers on the NSW Police Legacy/BACKUP for Life stall, it quickly became clear that not only were many people encountering the program for the first time, they were also excited to spread the word to their colleagues and friends. We handed out a lot of brochures, and with any luck, you’ll be seeing them at police stations all around the state!
A big thank you to all our stallholders for coming along to share your information and energy, to the Police Band for getting our feet tapping as always, and to our guest speakers: Deputy Commissioner Jeff Loy, Chief Inspector Colin Moore, Sergeant Jon Goddard, Police Association of NSW President Tony King, Matt Elliot and Anthony Minichello from Zynergy, and of course our Chair Gary Merryweather, and the BACKUP for Life Coordinator Esther Mckay.
Huge thanks to our team of Mentors and Volunteers – the day just couldn't have happened without your commitment to BACKUP for Life, and your belief in this program which is improving the lives of so many people. One of the most important things BACKUP for Life does it to pair former/transitioning police with mentors whose shared policing experience allows for instant trust, and this was in evidence throughout the day, witnessing the quiet and intense conversations happening around the venue.
The full impacts of the Expo are yet to be measured, but judging from years gone by, the effects will be positive and far-reaching, and will continue to affect profound changes on the lives of former and transitioning police.
