Picture: CHARLOTTE VARCOE
A PAIR of friendly faces were spotted in the Mount Gambier neighbourhood yesterday after attending a prestigious police ceremony held in the region.
Two officers represented South Australia Police at Meintangk Boandik police tracker Lanky Kana’s tribute in Beachport on Tuesday.
Standing out on their horses in the hear of Mount Gambier yesterday, both Adelaide mounted operations unit senior constables Tanya-Jane Bowen and Derek Croser enjoyed their first visit in over a decade.
Ms Bowen said the horses were an effective tool to create connections with the community while also combating crime.
“We are able to break down barriers for people who may not necessarily approach a police officer on foot,” she said.
“Anyone is able to see us from a far distance so we believe it makes people second-question their actions to hopefully do the correct thing.
“We are able to pick up on any crowd behavior which may cause issues and address it quickly.”
Mr Croser said both himself and Ms Bowen enjoy the public relations involved with their job.
“Today we visited Boandik Lodge and spoke to the elderly who seemed to enjoy the horses’ company,” he said.
“When we visit areas we like to become part of school talks and events to create those connections.
“We are there to provide a presence of community reassurance.”
Ms Bowen said although the unit does not visit the area often, they would be happy to increase their presence when necessary.
“There is only approximately 20 officers in the unit and we are well spread in where we go,” she said.
“We have been discussing with the Mount Gambier station to patrol during bigger events which attract crowds such as the South East Field Days.
“I know I have only been here once while mounted in the past 12 years of my involvement and I would love to visit more often.”
Mr Croser said mounted operations have been in existence for almost 180 years and is still a relevant resource.
