Interview with Darren Hine, Commissioner of Tasmania Police, APM

INTERVIEW

WE TAKE A CASUAL LOOK AT WHAT COMMUNITY MEANS TO SOME OF OUR FRIENDS AND PROMINENT MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY

In the community with … Darren Hine Commissioner of Tasmania Police, APM, Chair of the Australia New Zealand Police Advisory Agency

“Neighbourhood Watch is a great way for communities to know each other and to look out for each other and I would encourage any community to think about forming their own group.”

To you, what is the best thing about being Australian? Living in an inclusive and diverse community where there is still a sense of belonging and connectedness to your local area. Also it’s a great place to bring up kids in a safe community.

Where did you grow up? I grew up on the north west coast of Tasmania in Smithton and Burnie with my parents, sister and brother. My parents were farmers. What did you love the most about the area you grew up in? I loved the sense of community where everyone looked out for one another. My parents and I felt safe about being allowed to move freely about. I was allowed to ride my bike around the community because my parents knew it was safe, and I felt safe doing it.

What is the first community event you remember going to? The Stanley Show which is a small community agricultural show. I remember getting lost at the show as a very young kid and getting reunited with my parents by one of the locals.

What do you think is the most important individual contribution you can make to create community spirit? To get involved with local events, and if someone is struggling in the neighbourhood then the community rallies around to give them a hand.