On Monday evening the 29th of March 2010, Affinity Intercultural Foundation hosted the head of the Flemington Local Area Command, Superintendent Brett Henderson in its continued series of monthly Dialogue Lectures.
An audience of between 50-60 people, including many young professionals who reside in the area supervised by Superintendent Henderson's command heard him discuss local policing issues and emphasise the importance of finding ways for the law enforcement to work closely with the community to uphold a stable & peaceful environment.
Superintendent Henderson paid tribute to the rich cultural diversity in the region and reinforced his message of community collaboration that had been developing in recent years. Superintendent Henderson produced data including facts, statistics and graphs to demonstrate that as community engagement increased there seemed to be a corresponding decrease in particular crimes and other policing issues within the local area. He attributed much of this to the increase in proactive efforts by community groups who are playing their role in actively promoting social cohesion and taking responsibility for some of the issues affecting their communities particularly amongst younger people.
Superintendent Henderson remarked “At the end of the day the police is your police and the community is your community” so the ownership of the police and the willingness to deal with issues comes down to the people who are living in the area. Members from the audience were personal and engaging as they explained how they tried to assist unstable families and friends in guiding them through tense periods without any of their members brushing up against the wrong side of the law. It was evident that many of the local residents who attended the event were highly supportive of local police and the efforts that they are making to provide a safe environment to live, do business and raise families.
Deputy Mayor of Auburn, Mr Izzet Anmak explained how there are plans underway to establish local community harmony reference groups. The aim of these groups is to provide input in road mapping the journey of the constituents to greater cohesion and harmony. Mr Anmak acknowledged there’s a role to be played by every community member and that the challenge could be overcome with the assistance of community leaders, local government officials, private enterprise and the general public at large. The silent majority need to exemplary in their conduct and behaviour.
The evening was hosted by Deputy President of the Affinity Intercultural Foundation, Mr. Ahmet Keskin who fielded a large number of questions from the audience to which Superintendent Henderson provided detailed and appropriate responses. This large interest from the audience reflected just how important an issue law enforcement is to local residents and the broader community.
Mr Mehmet Saral, President of Affinity Intercultural Foundation gave a vote of thanks to conclude the evening and thanked Superintendent Henderson for his tireless efforts in his work around the area, he described him as a true champion with an exemplary work ethic and a committed member of the community who goes beyond the call of duty to ensure our streets and suburbs are safe. Mr. Saral suggested a Ramadan Iftar between the Police and the local community would further develop community relations and goodwill. Superintendent Henderson was very supportive of such an initiative.
