Chair's Report August 2018

August 2018

I am truly honoured to be appointed to the position of Chair of NSW Police Legacy, and realise that in following Paul Bousfield in this role I have very big shoes to fill. It is important to recognise the great work and achievements of NSWPL under the leadership of Paul – he has certainly made my role easier though his achievements over the last five years as Chair. Thanks Paul and we all wish you the best in your return to frontline policing.

I am excited to be the chair of NSWPL as we are now at an age of maturity. NSWPL is well supported by a great team of professional staff who are all dedicated to their roles in providing the best possible service and outcomes for all our beneficiaries. Our office reflects the professionalism our staff display every day and our board members are enthusiastic and passionate in making NSWPL the premier charity for police.

This all gives me an excellent launching pad to further develop and improve the services and benefits we provide to our legatees and beneficiaries so we can enhance their quality of life and the value we bring to it.

In the oncoming months I look forward to attending many local luncheons and NSWPL events in order to be able to meet our beneficiaries and develop that bond of legacy. Already I have had the extreme pleasure of attending luncheons at Wollongong, Gosford and The Hills, and on each occasion I was warmly welcomed and provided with the opportunity to meet many interesting and lovely ladies.

I was thrown into the deep end not long after being appointed as Chair through hosting the Family Day at Government House. I was slightly nervous as it was my first official event, but it turned out to be a fantastic day for all. The weather was sensational and we were honoured by the presence of the Governor of NSW Mr. David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), Mrs Linda Hurley, the Commissioner Mr Michael Fuller, Mrs Andrea Fuller and their family. Their willingness to attend the event demonstrates the value and importance of NSWPL to the Police Family. The day was a great opportunity to relax in the gardens of Government House and catch up with friends within the Police Legacy family. All the staff members of NSWPL worked so hard to make the day a success and all went well throughout the day thanks to their dedication.

Unfortunately over the last two months with the death of three serving and several retired officers, including former Commissioner John Avery, I have been sadly reminded of the real purpose of NSWPL in supporting families of police who have suffered a loss. But I draw strength on each occasion when I witness the Police Family coming together to support the families through their journey of grief. This all adds weight to the importance of NSWPL’s role in providing support and assistance for the long journey of bereavement and adjustment to a changed life.

As we are a charity we rely on donations to provide our services. The Blue Ribbon Ball and the Blue Ribbon Raffle are our major fundraising events for the year. This year the Ball is being held on Police Remembrance day, 29 September, which is very fitting for the event. Once again it will be held at the International Convention Centre, and it is already shaping up to be another great event for all. I look forward to meeting many more beneficiaries and supporters of NSWPL at the Ball.

NSWPL has developed into a very professional and supportive charity whose purpose is to care and support the Police Family. I look forward to leading NSWPL into its next stage, growing the brand and reputation of NSWPL within the wider community. As police face incredible personal risk every day in protecting our community it is important that the community never take this risk for granted.