General duties police from The Gap jumped into action last week when they discovered a friendly local, Tony Keim, had fallen on his morning walk.
The officers had been looking for Tony on March 17 to thank him in person for his kind thank you gift to their local police station when they noticed an ambulance along one of Tony's usual walking routes.
Police pulled over to check if the ambulance officers needed any support and learnt that Tony had fallen over nearby.
The officers kept Tony company and helped to keep him distracted with a few jokes and a chat while paramedics looked after Tony's injuries.
Sergeant Brad Holland said he had just met Tony during his routine walk a few days earlier while on night shift.
"After a short conversation, I felt like I had known Tony his whole life and I had immense respect for him," Sergeant Holland said.
Tony had shared that every day for the past two years he woke up early and went for a walk for his mental health.
In the days that had followed, Tony had sent a gift to The Gap police station to thank Sergeant Holland for taking the time to hear his story.
Sergeant Holland had wanted to thank Tony in person, which is why the officers were out looking for him that morning.
"As a first responder, we come across a people from all walks of life, who are coping the best way they know how," Sergeant Holland said.
"We are also regularly confronted with incidents which make it important for us to stay on top of our physical and mental health."
"It was inspiring to hear Tony's story, and his healthy commitment to frequent exercise for mental health."
"It also struck me as a good reminder to continue to prioritise checking in on the mental health of myself, my colleagues and my community."
The Gap police wish Tony a speedy recovery and look forward to him continuing to share his important story with others.
Physical wellbeing:
Run Army is one of the many programs the Queensland Police Service engages with because of its support of exercise for health and mental wellbeing.
This year's Run Army is set to take place in Brisbane on March 30 and in Townsville on April 6 with a 5km or 10km fun run or walk, and a virtual event for those unable to participate in person.
To find out more about Run Army, enter the event or to make a donation, visit https://runarmy.org.au/.
Mental Health support available:
It's important to remember that help is available.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact can be made with the following services:
• Lifeline on 131114
• Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
• Mensline Australia on 1300 789 978
• Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
• Headspace on 1800 650 890
• Black Dog Institute
• ReachOut
• 1800 RESPECT (National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service) on 1800 737 732
This article has been published with Tony's permission.
