Minister for Police Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan and Commissioner Ian Stewart attended a flag raising ceremony at Police Headquarters in recognition of the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC), Queensland Police say.
A breakfast was held after the ceremony where this year’s theme for NAIDOC Week, Our Languages Matter was celebrated.
The theme acknowledges the unique and essential role the Indigenous languages play in cultural identity and how it is central to the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Commissioner Stewart said today’s flag raising ceremony was an opportunity for members of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and government representatives to come together to share in a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
"Our four flag raisers today; Police Liaison Officer Shelton Murphy, Police Liaison Officer Michael Douglas, Sergeant Stephen Tillet and Matilda Bani, have all made significant contributions to their communities and we are grateful to have them here with us," Commissioner Stewart said.
"It is through the strong leadership of people like our flag raisers, and others with a passion for engagement, that the relationship between the QPS, government and community continues to be more collaborative and productive.
"We are determined to use experience and relationships with the community and stakeholders to find long term, sustainable solutions to close the gap on Indigenous disadvantages. We will continue to work with the government and the community to progress strategic goals, including the continuation of our recruitment strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people."
