Police Minister Mark Ryan and North Brisbane District Superintendent Katherine Innes are urging parents and carers to avoid losing children at the Ekka by collecting free wristbands and organising a meeting point should they become separated, Queensland Police say.
Superintendent Innes said the initiative had been a proven success for many years, ensuring that lost children at the Ekka were quickly reunited with their parents or caregivers. 44 children were successfully reunited with their parents in 2016.
"Police encourage parents to know where their children are at all times," Superintendent Innes said.
"On arrival at the Ekka, parents should show their children where the police station is, teach them how to identify a police officer, and explain that they need to find a police officer if they become lost.
"We suggest taking a photo of your child on the day so that we know what the child is wearing and charge your mobile phone so the police can contact you if needed."
Minister Ryan said the Ekka is a Queensland institution and we want everyone who visits the show to be able to enjoy themselves and remain safe.
"The free wristband initiative at the Ekka has provided 10 years of ensuring lost children are quickly reunited with their parents or caregivers," Minister Ryan said.
"It is every parent’s worst nightmare to lose sight of their child so we are urging parents and caregivers to be vigilant with their child’s safety and to talk to their child before attending the Ekka to ensure they know what to do if they do become separated."
Schools or community groups bringing large groups of children to the Ekka are encouraged to register their attendance with police at the wristband marquee at the Ekka Police Station. This will enable police to quickly contact the relevant carers, should a child become separated from the group.
