From the Chair: June 2021

June 2021

We are now well into 2021, and we have embraced the new normal with our local area lunches back in full swing. I have made it a mission to try and get to as many lunches as I can so we can all reconnect and forget 2020.

In early March we hosted our second 18-25 year old camp at Glenworth Valley on the Central Coast. The camp was well attended by our legatees, with some even travelling from the Gold Coast and Melbourne to be there. These events are designed to maintain the connection and support of our young adult legatees. We were very fortunate that we didn’t get rained on until the Sunday morning as this was the start of the big wet period, and we found out that we need new tents as many did not repel the rain! I want to thank Police Bank for sponsoring this weekend away – it was much appreciated by all attending.

In March we were given the opportunity by the Police Association to attend their biennial conference in Wollongong, and host a stall which was well patronised during the conference. A fundraising morning tea for Police Legacy was also held and the response from all was overwhelming. At the conference our Treasurer Mick Aalders was awarded Life Membership of the Police Association in recognition of his significant support and contribution to the Police Family. Well done, Mick.

Straight after the conference we hosted the Blue Ribbon Leadership Dinner at Doltone House, which was aimed at our corporate supporters. The dinner was well attended, and we were very fortunate to have Commissioner Fuller APM as our keynote speaker (although he was nearly trumped by Legatee Kath Ward who shared her story and her journey with Police Legacy very movingly – thanks  Kath). The night was a great success not only in terms of fundraising but also in terms of social engagement with key supporters.

Continuing in the fundraising arena we have seen two new Police Stations open at Inverell and Queanbeyan, where personalised pavers have been sold to make up the entry paths of the stations, raising significant funds for Police Legacy. These paths are an excellent way to remember the officers who have worked so hard in these communities.

With the significant inroads made in the control of the pandemic, this year will be busier than ever, providing many opportunities for us to re-engage with all. I look forward to the challenge of getting to as many events as I can.