Youth engagement helping to combat crime in the Tweed

By Sarah Waters

New recreational facilities in the Tweed have helped to decrease youth crime in the Shire.

Last Friday, TweedByron Police District Superintendent Dave Roptell, attended the opening of the Shire’s new youth recreation area at Jack Evans Boat Harbour.

Mr Roptell said the new space, designed for families and young people, fostered a positive community environment.

“We get down here on a daily basis and engage with people in the park - we move people on that need to be moved on - but people are just generally here having a good time,” he said.

“Like anywhere it’s always good for us to be around, to be seen and to engage, but having a park like this for families to congregate with their young ones is always something that is great for the local community.”

Mr Roptell has been widely recognised for his efforts in youth crime prevention.

In his previous role he worked as the NSW Police Youth and Crime Prevention Commander.

He has played a key role in enhancing and implementing youth diversionary programs throughout his career.

When it came to addressing youth crime locally, he said police took an active approach and there were a number of different programs in place to prevent at-risk young people from going down the wrong path in life.

“When we do have youth crime, we address it appropriately,” he said.

“We review it weekly; we follow up on engagements… people who need to be spoken to are and we make sure we are right across it.

“Some of them (at-risk youth) come from not the best family life and that’s something that is out of our control and we’re not going to be able to save everyone, but what we can do is be mentors, be role models and actually show that we care.”

At-risk youth in the community are offered the chance to turn their life around through programs offered at Tweed Heads PCYC (Police Citizens Youth Club).

Mr Roptell has been highly involved in the PCYC’s Fit For Life early intervention program, which has been designed for youth aged 10 to 17 who are at risk of poor choices and anti-social behaviour.

Through physical fitness, including free weekly boxing classes, nutrition and social engagement, the program aims to improve overall wellbeing and prevent/ divert youth from offending behaviours.

Positive role models, including players from the Gold Coast Suns and Brisbane Broncos also come down and engage with young people.

Mr Roptell has been able to share his love of sport with the young residents who attend the program, which has helped to break down barriers, build trust and empower youth.

He said Fit For Life was one of many programs offered at Tweed Heads PCYC which has an incredibly positive impact on young people.

“They can see that we (police officers) are humans, and we have that side to us where we would actually rather help them.

“It is something that is open to the whole community and all kids, not just ones that are at-risk.”

Meanwhile Tweed MP Geoff Provest said he volunteered with the local police once a week. He often speaks to young people who have told him if they didn’t have access to recreational facilities, including basketball courts and sports fields, they would instead get into trouble.