Tasmania Police, in partnership with Neighbourhood Watch Tasmania, hosted a successful Cuppa with a Cop event at Hennessy's Café Bakery in Shearwater today.
The event saw a broad representation of Tasmania Police, with general duties officers, Road Policing Services, and detectives all joining in to meet and chat with local residents. The strong turnout allowed community members to connect with officers across a range of policing roles, building trust and understanding.
Acting Inspector Luke Negri of the Devonport Division praised the events success, highlighting its importance in building positive relationships between police and the community.
The event featured Tasmania Police's final Kia Stinger Highway Patrol Vehicle, offering young attendees the opportunity to explore the vehicle and activate its lights and sirens. This marked the retirement of the last Kia Stinger from the Tasmania Police vehicle fleet.
"Events like Cuppa with a Cop allow us to engage with the community in a meaningful way. Having the chance to sit down, share a coffee, and hear directly from residents about their concerns and ideas helps us strengthen the trust and connection we need to keep our communities safe," Acting Inspector Negri said.
"Whether it's answering questions, providing advice, or simply having a chat, these conversations go a long way in breaking down barriers and ensuring people feel comfortable approaching us."
The event, supported by Neighbourhood Watch Tasmania, was well attended, with locals sharing feedback on community safety and appreciating the chance to interact with their local police officers in a relaxed environment.
As the holiday season approaches, Acting Inspector Negri also took the opportunity to remind residents of the importance of securing their homes and vehicles to prevent theft.
"The holiday period is a busy time for everyone, including opportunistic thieves. We encourage residents to take simple steps to secure their premises and motor vehicles - lock doors and windows, keep valuables out of sight, and don't leave cars unlocked. A few precautions can go a long way to preventing crime".
"If you don't lock your premises and vehicles, you're making it easy for thieves - unsecured property is an open invitation for crime."
Neighbourhood Watch Tasmania echoed the importance of community partnerships in fostering safer neighbourhoods.
"Building strong connections between police and residents not only helps prevent crime but brings the community together," said Graeme Foulis. Events like this are a perfect example of collaboration at its best".
Tasmania Police encourages everyone to remain vigilant and proactive this holiday seasons and looks forward to hosting similar events in the future.
For more information about future Cuppa with a Cop events, follow Tasmania Police and Neighbourhood Watch Tasmania on social media.
