More than 1,000 delegates from almost 60 countries will congregate in what will be the world’s largest international conference on women in policing between September 17 and 21 at the Cairns Convention Centre, Queensland Police say.
Delegates will parade along the Cairns Esplanade and through the streets of Cairns CBD led by the Queensland Police Pipes and Drums. Delegates will be dressed in their uniform and will march behind their country’s flag.
Queensland Police Service Commissioner Ian Stewart will send the parade on its route at 8am Monday, September 18.
"If previous parades are anything to go by at international conferences, this will be one not to be missed," Commissioner Stewart said.
"The streets will be a flood of colours as members march behind their nation’s flag. Officers marching come from many foreign law enforcement agencies, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Metropolitan Police, Trinidad and Tobago and Ghana, just to name a few.
"It’s a great opportunity for the community to get to know our officers and those from around the world."
President of the Australasian Council of Women and Policing, Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner Debbie Platz said the conference will showcase Cairns and Australia to the world, starting a process of friendship and sharing all in the name of keeping our communities safer.
"The international women in policing conference is an opportunity for law enforcement members from around the world to connect, innovate, and support each other and the communities we serve," Assistant Commissioner Platz said.
"The parade is just the start of what I know will bring about change in a range of areas."
Conference patrons Terri, Bindi and Robert Irwin from Australia Zoo will also wave the contingent through the streets until they arrive at the Cairns Convention Centre.
