ABOUT
QLD Blue Light is a not-for-profit organisation that has supported QLD youth through drug and alcohol-free programs and activities since 1984. Young people are mentored by Police and civilian volunteers to steer them away from criminal and anti-social behaviours and Police Officers are seen as positive role models while delivering crime prevention and early intervention initiatives. While still primarily known for the discos that kicked things off back in the 80’s, we have evolved to offer a large variety of activities for young Queenslanders. Our branches across the state host discos, movie nights, pool parties, roller skating, camps and both indoor and outdoor sporting activities, all hosted by Police and civilian volunteers. We have also developed programs targeting at-risk youth.
Blue EDGE is an early intervention program where Police mentor young people, increasing their self-confidence through a series of life-skills lessons and physical challenges.
ELEVATE is a Domestic & Family Violence primary prevention program that teaches young people how to recognise the various forms that D&FV can take and how to respond safely and appropriately.
The Shearing program provides a pathway to employment as it enables participants to gain a Cert II in Rural Operations.
The Learner Driver program assists young people to complete their logbook hours so they can obtain their provisional drivers licence.
Our primary prevention and early intervention programs and cultural, social, and sporting activities all have one thing in common – youth being mentored by Police Officers and Blue Light volunteers. We believe that all young people are potentially ‘at-risk’, whether it be economically disadvantaged, coming from a dysfunctional home, disengaged with education, or any one of the multiple factors that can negatively impact vulnerable young people.
Blue Light programs provide positive pathways to help young people make healthy life choices, form positive interpersonal relationships, and to feel good about their future.
One of Blue Light’s greatest strengths is our flexibility. Blue Light programs and activities can be held anywhere a serving Police Officer is located. We are not tied to bricks and mortar – schools, council buildings, commercial properties, PCYCs, and even paddocks have been utilized for the benefit of local young people. This has allowed us to operate in many of the most remote areas of the state, regardless of population or socio-economic status. We also service the metropolitan centres of Queensland, allowing us to reach the maximum number of young people each year.
MISSION
Police, community and young people achieving positive outcomes through early intervention.
VISION
Every young person to reach their potential and live free of crime.
VALUES
Respect. Inclusion. Compassion.
PROGRAMS, ACTIVITIES & EVENTS
While still primarily known for the discos that kicked things off back in the 80’s, Blue Light has evolved to offer a large variety of activities for young Queenslanders. Our Branches across the state host discos, movie nights, pool parties, roller skating, camps and both indoor and outdoor sporting activities, all hosted by Police and Civilian volunteers.
QLD Blue Light has developed two programs targeting at-risk youth.
Blue EDGE is an early intervention program where Police mentor young people, increasing their self-confidence through a series of life-skills lessons and physical challenges.
ELEVATE is a Domestic & Family Violence primary prevention program that teaches young people how to recognise the various forms that D&FV can take and how to respond safely and appropriately.
Our Staff
The Qld Blue Light Association has five paid staff. A Sergeant of Police has the role of State Coordinator, with civilians filling the other four roles.
State Office Staff (left to right) – State Programs Coordinator, Grant Gamlen; Business Manager, Julie Higgins; Program Support Administrator, Steph Levett; Acting State Coordinator, Sergeant Ty Connell; State Programs Assistant Coordinator, David Dodsworth.