Neighbourhood Watch Australasia (NHWA) CEO Maria Bennett started the presentation welcoming all attendees, which included Queensland Police Service (QPS) officers, family and friends of the winners, and some 2023 NHWA Award nominees. Also present was Hon. Mick de Brenni MP, Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs and Member for Springwood; Mr Joe Kelly MP, Member for Greenslopes; NHWA Board Director Superintendent Rob Fleischer; and Acting Senior Sergeant Susan Canniffe, Manager of the Crime Prevention Programs Unit. NHWA was honoured to have Queensland Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski present the awards to the winners.

The Malcolm Grant OAM Volunteer of the Year Award

The Malcolm Grant OAM Volunteer of the Year Award is presented to an individual who has volunteered their time with NHW, empowering people and communities through the development of strong partnerships, reducing the fear of crime and promoting safer communities.

Winner: John Devaus, Daisy Hill Neighbourhood Watch, Neighbourhood Watch Queensland

John Devaus is recognised for his significant contribution to NHW for over 23 years, through his tireless work to connect and protect the community by organising countless NHW events, projects, and resources. John has been able to develop and maintain strong community relationships with government and police, which are indicative of his commitment to improving his community.

Stephen Bourke Coordinator for Howrah Gardens/Glebe Hill NHW, and Peter Edwards BM APM NHWA Board Director and Tasmania NHW President.

Runner Up: Stephen Bourke, Howrah Gardens/Glebe Hill Neighbourhood Watch, Neighbourhood Watch Tasmania

Stephen has shown his commitment to the community, setting up a Facebook page and establishing the local NHW group. Stephen sources grant funding to lead many NHW initiatives, and engages with local politicians on how to make the community more inclusive and safe. Stephen’s unquestioned commitment to NHW reflects his desire to create safer communities.

The Police Commissioner’s Award

The Police Commissioner’s Award is presented in recognition of a Police Officer or Police Service Employee who has worked with NHW groups and actively demonstrated empowering people and communities.

Winner: Sergeant Nadine Webster APM, Ipswich District, Queensland Police Service

Sergeant Nadine Webster has committed over 22 years to multiple NHW groups, and has championed numerous community safety initiatives over the years. Nadine has also organised a range of community events for NHW volunteers and the wider community, in addition to the development and distribution of crime prevention resources. Nadine is commended for providing opportunities for NHW members to engage with the community, and providing support and guidance to all members.

Sergeant Anaru Graham, Kelsey Ardern NSNZ National Community Advisor, Louise Grevel NSNZ Chief Executive, Kirsty Oliver-Robson NSNZ Marketing and Communications Liaison, and Samasoni Malaulau Acting Manager Community Engagement NZ Police.

Runner Up: Sergeant Anaru Graham, Hawkes Bay District, New Zealand Police

Sergeant Anaru Graham is an advocate for his community, combining the true essence of community policing with his passion for Neighbourhood Support. Anaru empowers community members to take an active approach, connecting key stakeholders and leaders with a shared vision of community safety and connection. Anaru has also supported a range of NSNZ events, including natural disaster community workshops to educate, and improve community resilience.

Community Champion Award

In 2023 NHWA recognised the need for a new award; the Community Champion Award. This award is to recognise an individual who has promoted the NHW ethos, while not being a NHW Volunteer or Police employee.

Garry Fisher Director City Life City of Kwinana, Sinead Gilligan Community Development Officer, Jenny O’Brien NHW WA State Coordinator, and Bernie Durkin NHWA Chair and NHW WA State Director.

Winner: Sinead Gilligan, City of Kwinana, Western Australia

Going above her usual duties, Sinead engages to collaborate with police and NHW whenever possible to better serve her community – from sourcing and distributing NHW resources, establishing local projects to address concerns, or supporting activities to get children involved with NHW. Sinead recognises the importance of agencies working together, to achieve the mutual goal of building friendly, connected and safer communities.

2023 NHWA Award Nominees

• Darren Buckley, Toowoomba Region, QLD
• Joy Buckley, Toowoomba Region, QLD
• Julie Gliddon, Kwinana WA
• Pam Lobwein, Ipswich QLD
• Robert Ormsby, Gold Coast QLD
• Senior Constable Rob Crowley, Logan District, QLD
• Sergeant Angela Graham, Mudgeeraba QLD
• Senior Constable Mike McDonald, Logan District, QLD

Thank you to all 2023 nominees for your incredible commitment to the wellbeing and safety of your communities, and congratulations on your very well-deserved recognition!

The 2024 NHWA Awards are open now, to nominate a worthy recipient or for more information visit: www.nhwa.com.au/news-media/awards