AT Wellington Square last month, the coffee was hot and the Coffee with a cop program was just as popular.
Coffee with a cop is not unique to the Mitchell Police Service Area. Spearheaded by the Victorian Police Public Protection Unit, the initiative has two aims: The first being to increase the visibility of local law enforcement agencies in their communities, and the second being to increase positive engagement within the community.
To encourage residents to stop and meet their local law and crime-fighting force, a free coffee voucher was distributed to passers-by.
Leading Senior Sergeant Kat Mills said the community was immediately interested, and within 30 minutes, around 20 people had stopped by her information desk.
“What’s new [for this event] is the question box,” she said.
“We will take it with us in the future. Anyone can ask us a question and it will be answered on the local Eyewatch Facebook Page.”
Senior Constable Shane Bidderman stated that the program provided residents with the opportunity to have a relaxed encounter with police.
“We hope to have our next [event] in Kilmore,” he said.
Alongside the police, Northern Community Legal Centre Senior Lawyer Emma Henderson was on hand to listen to issues which concern the community. Mitchell Shire Council Gender Equality Officer Abby Eager was also present to promote human rights.
Wallan resident Mary Carboon, who was shopping at Wellington Square at the time, stated there was a real buzz in the air as the community interacted with each other.
“Everyone looks so happy,” she said.
