Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll has given her full support into the continuation of the successful Mount Isa PCYC youth zone.
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The Commissioner visited the youth zone for the first time on Monday January 13 to see how it operates, meet police, agencies and youth.
Around 40 youth were in attendance for the school holiday activities and were able to meet and chat with the Commissioner.
Sergeant Bernadette Strow said the Mount Isa PCYC youth zone had been running an intensive school holiday program in collaboration with several other local youth agencies.
"The Commissioner was supportive of the continuation of the program as it is showing great potential in the short time since the program began in September," Sgt Strow said.
"She also shared in some of the activities with the children which included box fit, hand ball, skipping and craft activities.
"As well as indicating that she will look into what QPS have done in the region regarding prioritising a program such as the youth zone, and having discussions with youth justice counterparts who would also be heavily interested in this program," she said.
Sgt Strow thanked Constable Aimee Sewell for all of her hard work with the youth zone.
"The youth zone activities are managed by our youth development officer, Constable Aimee Sewell who does an amazing job in coordinating the staff, volunteers, agencies as well as all the activities. Without the support from our local agencies especially the transition hub we would not be able to provide such an effective program," Sgt Strow said.
The Commissioner's visit also included meeting with local police to discuss current issues affecting the Mount Isa Policing District.
Commissioner Carroll said the issues raised by local police had similar themes across the state.
"The demand in policing has increased dramatically in the past four years, Commissioner Carroll said.
The Youth Zone trial will cease at the end of January along with the goodwill arrangement of free rent for the venue from building owner Simon Pate.
Although the future is unknown at this stage it is hoped funding will be successful to continue the program into the future.
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