General News
10 February, 2026
Police recognised for work beyond the badge
STAWELL police have received rare state-wide recognition for the work they do within the local community. Victoria Police’s long-running magazine Police Life recently published a feature online about how the Stawell Proactive Policing Unit has been assisting vulnerable residents through the local meals-on-wheels program, placing the efforts of our local officers in the spotlight. The January article showcased how local members are going beyond traditional duties to strengthen trust and connection throughout the community.
Senior Constable Abby Harrisson initiated the collaboration with Northern Grampians Shire Council and Community Care. About two years ago, she approached council to see if police could support the existing meal delivery service.
“About two years ago I reached out to Northern Grampians Council and Community Care to see if we could assist with their meals-on-wheels program, because I thought we might be able to add some value,” Senior Constable Harrisson told Police Life.
Since then, Stawell officers have been collecting meals from the local hospital about once or twice a month and delivering them directly to the homes of vulnerable residents. What began as a practical support role has become much more than that.
The home visits give officers a chance to meet people they would not normally encounter on patrol, and to check in on their wellbeing. Officers sit down with residents to talk about anything they might be concerned about, offer advice, or simply share a friendly conversation.
One unexpected benefit of the interactions has been the chance to help community members avoid scams, with residents often asking officers to look at suspicious emails, texts or even letters when they deliver meals.
“Usually, if a community member has received something they think might be a scam, they’ll ask me to take a look at their phone,” Senior Constable Harrisson said.
On one occasion, officers were able to help a woman understand that letters she had been receiving were part of a romance scam, preventing her from becoming a victim.
The connections made through meal deliveries have also led the unit to broaden its community engagement. Last year, Stawell police began running tailored scam awareness and home safety sessions for local groups, including seniors organisations, the local bowling club and the University of the Third Age.
Senior Constable Owen Lyons, who joined the unit in 2023, said the home visits are among the most rewarding parts of his role.
“When we visit, they’re always so happy to see us, and of course never let us out the door without imparting some of their wisdom or sharing a story,” he told Police Life.
The Police Life feature acknowledges what many residents already know, that local police are an integral part of community life. It is a recognition that the quiet, consistent efforts of Stawell officers are making a real difference, one meal and one conversation at a time.
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