April 2019
From 26 February to 1 March, Chair Det Supt Gary Merryweather and Community Support Officer Leisa Doherty embarked on the Great Northern Road Trip, heading out to meet up or catch up with Police Legatees all across the region. They attended Local Area Lunches in Forster, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Murwillumbah, where they were made very welcome by attendees and had a great time catching up with all the local goings on. Gary encouraged several local officers to attend the lunches as well, strengthening the bonds of Police Family.
On Day Three the team were presented with a donation from McGrath Real Estate Sawtell through the community giveback program, a fantastic initiative in which anyone who sells a house through their service nominates a charity to receive a $500 donation. Much appreciated!
On Day Four Gary presented a cheque for $10,000 to Henry and Milah Irby, two of the three children of the late Snr Cst Peter Irby, who passed away last year after a battle with cancer (Darcy was there supporting his siblings, but was understandably a little camera shy). The event was covered by Prime 7 News North Coast, and the children spoke bravely and articulately about their father and what he meant to them.
There are plans for further trips later in the year, as our dedicated staff make every effort to get out into the regions and let everybody know that they are part of the family no matter where they live.
