The 111 Files: Cops chop for those in need

Rotorua police were instrumental in supplying firewood for a community cause.

If you have been a reader of this column for a while, you will know that I am full of admiration for the passion and dedication of so many people in this community who work hard to make a difference for others.

One of the best things about my job is that every day I get to work with some incredibly passionate and committed people.

This week I want to share a story that is a great example of what that commitment looks like.

Every week Rotorua police host a meeting with a group of community partners to discuss how we can help individuals who have been victims of family violence.

At the end of one of those meetings last year, a representative from one agency mentioned that she was aware of a number of families who were caring for either the very young, or very old, and had run out of firewood.

Although it was not a family violence issue, she was aware that she was in a room full of people who cared and was hopeful that someone might be able to help.

Detective Sergeant George Staunton and Detective Jason Lock took up the challenge to find a solution.

Long story short, George and Jason used their community contacts and within a few weeks had secured enough firewood for all the families involved through the assistance and generosity of local businessman, Dave Harris.

The firewood was delivered by the Tane group from Korowai Aroha.

This year George and Jason decided to be proactive and ensure that families in need were provisioned with firewood before the winter set in.

Once again, they used their networks in the community and with the assistance of people like Iriana Matoe, Bill Rigney, Dane Forrest, Clark McCarthy and John Crean, George was able to organise the collection and transport of discarded wood to a centralised site in Rotorua.

Through March and early April, George, Jason and another police officer, Kris Edgington, spent numerous hours after work and on weekends ringing and splitting approximately 65cu m of firewood, retail value, about $5000.

A number of volunteers helped with the cutting of the wood, including forestry trainees from Waiariki Institute of Technology.

Once the firewood was cut and split, George then co-ordinated the pick-up of wood by a range of community agencies for distribution to those in need - all at no cost to those receiving it.

It's that sort of commitment that makes our community a great one. Kia ora George, Jason and all those who helped you with this project.

Inspector Bruce Horne is the Rotorua police area commander.