November 2011
Congratulations to Inspector Lindy Kerr, a lifetime member of IAWP, who recently retired from Victoria Police.
What a busy life we all lead - even in retirement when it would seem illogical, I have found this year has flown. While we in the Southern Hemisphere are gearing up to a hot and humid Christmas and our Northern associates are preparing for Winter holidays - it is time to reflect on the year 2011.
In August, both Mel and I went to to Lexington, Kentucky for the 49th IAWP annual training conference. It is a testament to the effectiveness and currency the IAWP that these conferences continue to be held successfully. Of course this only happens as the result of lots of hard work and dedication by the conference hosts. Kentucky provided a very friendly and hospitable atmosphere with the theme of Racing to the Future.
Your IAWP membership is enhanced and reaffirmed by attending a conference on the other side of the world. It may be difficult to raise funds but the benefits for both yourself and your organization are guaranteed.
It is such an honour to participate in uniform in the Parade of Nations, surrounded by the spectacular variety of uniforms and cultures represented. The Opening Ceremony is truly inspiring and marks the start of a memorable experience that each IAWP conference proves to be. An IAWP conference involves informative training sessions, social networking, the AGM, regional meetings, the Final Banquet and my personal favorite, the Awards Luncheon. It is a triumph that fellow officers from around the globe are acknowledged for their achievements in a variety of situations. I challenge anyone to attend the Awards Luncheon and not make a resolution to nominate either themselves or a colleague for the next round of awards.
I have found each conference I have attended to be unique. I have met so many interesting people and have learnt a little about the place where the conference is held.
If you were unable to attend this year, why not make a plan now to attend one of the future conferences? The locations for the next two are St. Johns, Newfoundland in 2012 (google it if you are not familiar with it) and Durban, South Africa in 2013. Both these, owing to their location, offer an opportunity to visit a country so completely different from your own. This will enrich your life experiences and at the same time increase your professional knowledge and network of peers.
I suggest you approach your supervisor some time soon and 'plant the seed' for gaining their support to facilitate your attendance. Perhaps they might attend as well. You will receive quality training directly relevant to your current and future duties and responsibilities. You can renew or form new friendships with people from our amazing cosmopolitan membership.
Please contact either Mel or myself if you have any queries or we can provide any assistance to you.
Take care
Karen
