Spence: Queensland police thinking outside the square to prevent crime

Some of Queensland’s most innovative crime prevention initiatives have been recognised, during the Queensland Police Service Excellence Awards at Police Headquarters today.

Police Minister Judy Spence and Commissioner Bob Atkinson presented awards to officers and civilian staff whose ability to think ‘outside the square’ has resulted in the development of new crime prevention initiatives, delivering positive outcomes for the Queensland community.

Ms Spence said: “The modern Queensland Police Service is made up of creative, innovative and dedicated people, who regularly go above and beyond the call of duty to serve the Queensland public.

“Today’s award recipients represent the calibre of officers and staff we have working in this state.

“Those involved in the projects nominated for Excellence Awards have used their initiative to find new ways to fight and prevent crime.

“The projects range from localised initiatives in regional Queensland, including a clever puppet show helping to encourage kids in the Mount Isa District to speak out about domestic violence – to statewide initiatives, such as the innovative assault reduction campaign titled ‘One Punch Can Kill’, which uses new-age technology and strategic product placement to promote important anti-violence messages to young people.

“The campaign is supported by the Matthew Stanley Foundation and the Queensland Homicide Victims’ Support Group.

“These projects are making a difference in the lives of everyday Queenslanders – and highlight the outstanding contribution of members of the Queensland Police Service.”

Commissioner Bob Atkinson said: “I believe the Awards for Excellence are an effective way of publicly recognising the efforts and achievements of Queensland Police Service staff members and officers.

“This year’s finalists demonstrate the diligence and commitment of the police officers and staff members who are out there each and every day working to meet and exceed the expectations held by the Queensland community.

“The projects being recognised here today are an example of QPS members devising new or interesting ways to address the issues faced in the community,” Commissioner Atkinson said.

This year’s Excellence Awards also include the inaugural Richard Symes Warry Award for Excellence in Police Education and Training. Mr Warry was the former Deputy Chief Executive of Queensland Police Resource Management.

The inaugural award, which will become a permanent fixture of the annual presentation, recognises initiatives in the field of education and training, which contribute substantially to the delivery of services to the community.

Media Contacts: Minister’s Office – 3239 6172        Police Media - 3015 2444


Award Recipients:

POLICING OPERATIONS

Gold: The “Counter Terrorism Awareness Program” (Metropolitan North Region) was aimed at increasing awareness and training for regional staff in order to respond effectively to terrorist activity. Processes and strategies were also developed as part of the project.

Silver: “The Crime Bulletin” (Townsville District) is an online information tool designed to prevent and solve local crime. The bulletin is emailed to a distribution list of community members and includes information on crimes, security images or comfits in order to appeal for information.

Bronze: “Traffic Safety Sign Project” (Mareeba District) – developed out of a need to ensure motorists travel safely through the site of traffic crashes. A safety sign was developed that could be easily and quickly placed on existing road signs, metal surfaces or vehicles to ensure a safe environment for police, victims and members of the community.

CRIME PREVENTION

Gold: “Puppets to the Rescue” (Mt Isa District) is aimed at working with children to broach the difficult subjects of domestic violence, sexual abuse and anti-social behaviour. The project involves a puppet (worked by a district crime prevention coordinator or domestic violence liaison officer) that speaks with children across the Mount Isa District to tackle these issues.

Silver: “Project ID-IT” (North Brisbane District) is a strategy aimed at creating awareness and implementing preventative strategies regarding property theft. The project works to increase property marking and make microdot property marking technology available to the public.

CORPORATE AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Gold: “Police Pursuits – The Emotive Side” (Human Resource Development Branch) is an interactive DVD and guide aimed at encouraging risk assessment during pursuits. The DVD works to provide participants with an insight into the negative effects of pursuits and the impact they can have while also presenting alternative strategies.

PROBLEM ORIENTED AND PARTNERSHIP POLICING

Gold: “Statewide Assault Reduction Campaign – One Punch Can Kill” (Media and Public Affairs Branch) was an awareness and education project specifically targeted towards the 12-27 year age group. The project aims to highlight the consequences of violence and promote alternative strategies for managing conflict.

Silver: “eBay POPP Project” (Fraud and Corporate Crime Group) was designed to educate the public on correct reporting and investigating processes regarding online auction fraud. A website was initiated to assist with reporting and ensures the victim has followed the correct processes prior to police involvement.

Bronze: “Team Up Inala” (Oxley District) was a project focused on improving the behaviour and attitudes of participating students through instruction in judo/ jujitsu, self defence, anti-bullying techniques, team building and the teaching of alternative decision making skills.

RICHARD SYMES WARRY AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN POLICE EDUCATION & TRAINING

Winner: “Police Pursuits – The Emotive Side” (Human Resource Development Branch)

Certificate of Commendation: Incident Command Workshop for Supervisors