Sport is to unite Victoria’s first responders as 28 Agencies gear up for this year’s Victoria Police and Emergency Services Games.
President of the Victoria Police Games Federation, Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugen said almost 3,000 participants were expected to swap their radios and hi-vis gear for goggles and rackets as they put their skills and athleticism to the ultimate test.
“Most times we interact with our emergency services partners is at a critical incident where lives are on the line,” Deputy Commissioner Nugen said.
“This event is one of the few occasions where we can come together each year and strengthen that unique bond in a positive and fun environment,” he said.
“It’s also an ideal outlet to promote mental health and physical wellbeing which is especially important for emergency services workers.”
Deputy Commissioner Nugen said the event would kick off on 27 March and run for a week across metropolitan and regional locations.
He said emergency services workers dedicated their lives to helping others in need.
“It’s an incredibly selfless role,” the Deputy Commissioner said.
“These games give them the chance to break away from that grind, come together as a team and prioritise their own physical and mental wellbeing.
“While we work as a team each day to protect the community, I’m looking forward to seeing some fierce and friendly competition this year.”
He said the sports on offer included cricket, AFL 9s, cross country, rowing, rock climbing, tennis and running, along with sailing which was being added for the first time
Deputy Commissioner Nugen said the stakes were particularly high this year with reigning champion Corrections Victoria competing for its fourth consecutive trophy.
Further information on the Games can be accessed at this PS News link.
