NHW State Rally 2004

The support and enthusiasm for our program was once again displayed at the recent 2004 State NHW Rally. Over 300 NHW members and police converged on the Gold Coast to gain interesting information on current strategies and converse with other NHWatchers.

Former Deputy Commissioner of Victoria, and current state president of NHW Vic, Bill Horman gives a presentation

The theme of this year's Rally, 'Moving Forward' was highlighted by a series of interactive workshops. Rally-goers were given demonstrations on how police utilise information and intelligence provided by the community, how the information is processed and disseminated, and examples of outcomes and results.

Presenters showcased local strategies and ideas to enhance a NHW area, and a presentation on a newly established Volunteer Engagement Project was explained. Another highlight of the Rally was presentations by National NHW Conference delegates, from around Australia and New Zealand. These sessions provided an insight on how other programs operate, and their visions for the future.

Jenny Bobeszko was speechless but overjoyed at winning the NHW Member of the year award.

The Rally concluded with a scrumptious sit down meal and the presentation of regional NHW member and police awards, and the NHW 'Member of the Year'. Congratulations to Jenny Bobeszko, Area Coordinator of Holland Park 11 for receiving the Member of the Year award - the highest accolade in the Queensland NHW program.

Jenny has dedicated herself to the NHW program for many years and has extended her good work as the chairperson of the Metropolitan South Region Support Group, as well as many other roles to ensure the continued success of NHW's in her area. To all the award winners and to the unsung volunteers of the program, congratulations and thankyou for your commitment and dedication to keeping our community a safer place to live.

I would like to thank the Gold Coast District organising committee for their time and effort in providing a magnificent venue, and an entertaining and informative experience. Thanks also to the dedicated band of Volunteers in Policing who ensured everyone was where they should have been, and the Rally's supporters Accommodation Gold Coast and the Gold Coast City Council.