Community & Business
17 January, 2025
Another step towards a better community
Moves spearheaded by the Officer-in-Charge of Oakey Police, Acting Sergeant James Leahy, who has a desire to bring the community closer together, have taken another step forward with the installation of a community seat at the front of the Police Station.
The seat is conveniently located on the nature strip outside the station with the idea that anyone who wants to sit and chat - be it with a police officer or anyone else - can do so.
The seat was acquired with the cooperation of the Toowoomba Regional Council through the Community Development Officer - West, Karen Suhl.
It’s painted white to tie in with the white ribbon that’s associated with efforts to remind people of the need to be aware of domestic violence (DV) which, unfortunately, permeates every community.
Acing Sergeant Leahy said the seat is part of a “triangle” at the police precinct, aimed to assist victims of DV.
Inside the station, a “safe room” has already been created.
It is similar to rooms the Queensland Police Service is creating across the state.
They are designed to enable those impacted by DV to engage with police in a more relaxed manner.
At Oakey, the engagement space features a comfortable couch and chairs, along with a small play space with toys for children.
The level of official equipment is small with a desk and computer to enable police to chat in a more relaxed atmosphere with those who come seeking help.
The third part of the “triangle” at Oakey Police Station will be a Yarning Circle.
These circles are spaces where traditionally, First Nations people gather to chat.
At the Police Station, it is planned that the local Yarning Circle will be available for use by any member of the community.
It will be created in an unused courtyard at the station.
Acting Sergeant Leahy said the idea is to raise the floor area, replacing the concrete with granite or similar surface, and install seating for those who gather for a yarn.
He said it is envisaged that poles holding up a shade sail in the courtyard would become totem poles.
Further, it is hoped to get local students to paint the walls with appropriate murals.
When the Yarning Circle is completed, the wall at the Campbell Street frontage will be altered to enable public access to the courtyard.
Acting Sergeant Leahy said the aim of the three installations is to help build relationships between the general community and our local First Nations people.
