Empowering women in rural communities

Detective Inspector Mick Dowie and author Fleur McDonald, Queensland Police say.

Best-selling Australian rural author, Fleur McDonald paid a visit to Brisbane, Toowoomba and the MOCs (Rural) facility at Felton this week

While conducting research for future works was high on the agenda for Fleur’s visit, her passion for empowering women in rural communities led her to learn more about the crimes that pose the greatest risk to outback communities.

"It has become quite apparent to us that women play an integral role in rural communities – managing businesses, homes and families. For this reason, it is important for us to help educate and build their resilience against crime.

"While the internet has brought the world into our homes and helps many in rural Queensland feel less isolated, it also brings with it a variety of risks. Scams, financial and cyber crimes and crimes committed by sexual predators who target children are all unfortunately made possible by the internet, Detective Inspector Mick Dowie of the Major and Organised Crime Squad (Rural) said.

"We look forward to working with Fleur in her role as a public speaker and advocate for women and their important role in outback communities to help us spread important safety messages. Hopefully by doing this we can encourage them to realise that regardless of their location or remoteness, help and support is always close by," he said.

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