More than 100 people attended an inaugural cricket game in Dandenong on Sunday to strengthen relations between police and the local Indigenous community.
By Lia Bichel
AN INAUGURAL cricket game between police and local Indigenous people attracted about 130 people to the Dandenong showgrounds on Sunday.
“We just wanted to have a fun day while breaking down barriers between uniformed members and the Aboriginal community,” local Indigenous worker David Dryden said.
Mr Dryden contacted Senior Sergeant Alan Dew with the idea, and he thought it was an excellent opportunity to strengthen relations while enjoying a game of cricket.
“I think that since white settlement there has been a sort of distrust between aboriginal community and authorities,” he said. “But generally speaking I think that we have a good relationship, and this event just bonds even stronger.”
Together, they recruited players, received sponsorship for equipment, and got permission for council to use the oval. The winners of the game received a trophy in memory of Darren Knowles, a well-known local aborigine who died last year unexpectedly. It was presented by his three sisters who flew down from Sydney for the event.
“It was a great way to honour him for his contribution to the community” Mr Dryden said. “He was a brother, cousin, father of three, and someone everyone could rely on and could talk to.”
Snr Sgt Dew said the event was a success and he hoped it would continue in the future.
“It was a great day, the weather was on our side, everyone had a great time,” he said. Everyone is talking about it being bigger and better next year.”
Sponsors for the event include Southeast Alcohol and Drug Services, NgWala Willumbong, Dandenong Police, the City of Greater Dandenong, and the Victorian Indigenous Coordination Centre.
