Police visit Burringurrah for a community celebration
It’s been a big week in Burringurrah, with senior police representatives, Royal Life Saving staff and the local community gathering at the Burringurrah Remote Aboriginal Swimming Pool for the Burringurrah Community and Service Providers Pool Party.
A large police contingent travelled to Burringurrah from as far away as Perth, including WA Police Deputy Commissioner Gary Dreisburgs, and regional WA Police Executives. Royal Life Saving WA General Manager Community Relations Greg Tate assisted local Pool Manager Aaron Jacobs in hosting the event, after hitching a ride to town on the police plane!
Aaron Jacobs says after a talk from local community members and service providers showcasing their work it was time for the fun to begin! “Many community members participated in a highly competitive water polo competition alongside police. It was great to see Burringurrah people and service providers compete in mixed teams - I could see as the competition progressed, people connected.”
After all that activity it was time for a feed, with local bush tucker on the menu including bush turkey and kangaroo tail provided by community members. There was also a more mainstream barbeque for those who perhaps were not so game!
The day also included a welcome to country and award presentations by Deputy Commissioner Dreisburgs, while it was all finished off with a disco and night swim. Aaron says the definite highlight for the local children was taking part in the chicken dance under disco lights!
We’re thankful to the WA Police for their partnership as we work to “close the gap” in Aboriginal communities across regional WA, ensuring local children and adults have an opportunity to learn vital swimming, water safety and community development skills.
Find out more about our Remote Aboriginal Swimming Pool Project, sponsored by the Department of Communities and BHP, click the link below.
