The Massive Murray Paddle will have five large teams of Aboriginal children entering this year, with a mix of community leaders, police and various stakeholders.
On Monday, Snr Sgt Steve Marshall of Corowa Police once again embarks on an epic journey as the world’s longest flat-water canoe race gets underway.
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This year, sidelined by injury, Snr Sgt Marshall will form part of the support crew for members from the Murray River Police District and 40 Aboriginal kids as they make their way from Yarrawonga, 415km down river to Koondrook.
Over the last three years, the group has grown from 12 Aboriginal kids to 40, with another 40 police and volunteers helping them along the way.
“I would describe that first year as the best week I've had in the police,” Snr Sgt Marshall said.
Senior Sgt Steve Marshall, Const Kylie Edlington, Yvonne Leonard from Uncle Toby's, Const Josh Hudson and Sgt Mitchell Lalor prepare to set off 415km down river on Monday.
“From not knowing the kids when you get into the boat to interacting with them like they’re your best mates; it’s just the best feeling.”
Sgt Mitchell Lalor has been involved with Team NSW Police for the past three years and will again take to a K2 kayak with one of the kids.
“The purpose of our team is to break down the barriers between the police and the Aboriginal community,” Sgt Lalor said.
The Massive Murray Paddle will have five large teams of Aboriginal children entering this year, with a mix of community leaders, police and various stakeholders.
“To establish connections with key Aboriginal stakeholders, like the Lands Council, so that we can work together for a connected community.
“Sometimes the kids don't want to talk at first, but once they have a good interaction with you, they become like best mates.”
Last Friday, Snr Sgt Marshall and fellow team members, Sgt Lalor, Constable Kylie Edington and Constable Josh Hudson, were on hand at Uncle Toby’s in Wahgunyah to accept food donations for the team.
“I want to build a longer relationship with Uncle Toby’s, because they’re such a massive part of this community,” Snr Sgt Marshall said.
“They’ve already got their connection with the Surf Life Saving; this is just the inland version.”
The Massive Murray Paddle will start below the Yarrawonga Weir this Monday., November 17.
The Massive Murray Paddle has been running since 1969 with a steadfast commitment to community support and paddlers choosing their own charities or social causes to raise funds for.
It begins on November 17 at Yarrawonga and finishes at Koondrook on November 21.
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