Victoria’s top cop has taken a break from fighting crime to attend a “special” Geelong celebration of Aboriginal women.
Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton joined more than 120 community members “including respected Aboriginal elders” at Wednesday’s event, Victoria Police said.
Geelong Police Station’s NAIDOC Week event “celebrated the invaluable contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and the significant role they play as pillars of our society”.
Comm Ashton welcomed his opportunity to “celebrate the richness and diversity of our Aboriginal community”, particularly its women.
“This event is particularly special (because) it is the first NAIDOC event to be held outside of Melbourne and represents our ongoing commitment to strengthen and build our existing relationships between police and local Aboriginal communities.
“Too often the role of Aboriginal women in cultural, social and political areas goes unrecognised but today we pay tribute to them.
“In particular, I commend the work of our past and current Aboriginal women who work on the frontline and in various roles across Victoria Police. These women have enhanced our understanding of and relationships with Victorian Aboriginal communities immeasurably.
“We are proud of our partnerships with Victorian Aboriginal communities and we will continue to build upon them.”
Comm Ashton acknowledged “colourful bollards” outside the police station, painted with hand prints in the lead up to the NAIDOC Day event.
“The bollards recognise and acknowledge our shared history and serve as a reminder of our continued commitment to reconciliation with Aboriginal communities,” he said.
