Batting breaks down barriers

POLICE officers and indigenous community members faced off in a cricket match at Dandenong Showgrounds on Sunday.
Local indigenous worker David Dryden initiated the event in 2009, with help from Springvale Senior Sergeant Alan Dew.
“We just wanted to have a fun day while breaking down barriers between uniformed members and the Aboriginal community,” Mr Dryden said.
The winner receives a trophy in memory of Darren Knowles, a well-known local aborigine who died unexpectedly in 2008.
“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.”
Prior to the 2 March event, Sen Sgt Dew was expecting a big turnout.
“We just play cricket, we get to know each other in a relaxed environment and have sausage and a can of Coke,” he said.
“I think we’ve won the last two times we’ve played. We’re going for a three-peat.
“But it’s not the winning, it’s the taking part.”