Two South Australia Police (SAPOL) officers have been honoured for their contributions to local communities, receiving NAIDOC awards earlier this month.
In a statement, SAPOL said the Officer in Charge of Far North Local Service Area, Superintendent Paul Roberts and Crime Prevention Officer in Whyalla and Indigenous officer, Senior Constable First Class (SC1C) Monique Anderson had each been honoured with awards during NAIDOC Week (3-10 July) in recognition of their significant contributions to local communities.
SAPOL said Superintendent Roberts (pictured above left) received the Unsung Hero Award following nomination by the Port Augusta NAIDOC Committee, the first time a non-Aboriginal police officer had been awarded a NAIDOC Award in South Australia.
“(Superintendent Roberts) was recognised for his considerable contribution to the COVID-19 response, particularly his work with the Remote and Vulnerable Communities Zone Emergency Management Group which aimed to support all Aboriginal and vulnerable communities across the State,” SAPOL said.
SAPOL said the Unsung Hero Award was given to an Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal person who gave their time, talent, and energy unselfishly, making substantive yet unrecognised contributions to their community.
“This award highlights the high esteem in which Superintendent Roberts is held by Aboriginal communities across South Australia and underlines his reputation as a trusted advisor on Aboriginal culture and relationships,” it said.
SAPOL said SC1C Anderson (pictured above right) was the proud recipient of a Community Role Model award, presented by the Whyalla NAIDOC Committee.
“She has been a part of the Whyalla community for a number of years, participating on committees and working with many agencies on a variety of programs,” SAPOL said.
“She is renowned for pulling everyone together for a common cause.”
SAPOL said SC1C Anderson went above and beyond within her role, working many hours to provide opportunities for local youth.
