POLICE and Special Olympics Victoria hope to break barriers throughout the region on Wednesday and Thursday as they run through Wimmera towns.
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The Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Victoria runs on Wednesday in Ararat and Horsham and Thursday in Dimboola.
The run aims to break down barriers and fears some intellectually disabled might hold about authority figures and police.
Hindmarsh mayor Debra Nelson said positive interactions with police strengthens community relationships.
“Dimboola have been very lucky to be included in the route for this year’s Special Olympics torch run,” she said.
“We as a community can show our support by lining the main street and cheering on the Law Enforcement team and local shire representatives in the run from the Dimboola Police Station to the library on Thursday 27 April at 9am.”
In Ararat, the torch run will make its way down Barkly Street, Vincent Street and Alexandra Gardens.
Up to 30 people with a disability will participate in the run.
It will be followed by sports ‘come and try’ activities at Alexandra Oval, with more than 100 participants from Skene Street Special School, Pinnacle Disability Services and Ararat Primary School.
Special Olympics Victoria sports development manager Simon Rodder said it was a wonderful opportunity to provide support to those who need it most.
“People with an intellectual disability are the largest disability population in Australia,” he said. “We hope to provide sporting opportunities for those in Ararat who may not have previously had access.” Traffic in all locations might be affected.