Colour and connection: disability community builds connections with police through colour splash

In this inclusive and accessible event, clients from Scope and Yooralla, like Tracy, were splashed with water and showered in colour by local Victoria Police officers as they walked along Lake Benalla.  

“The best part was getting paint all over us. We went back [to the finish line] four times. We loved it!" said Tracy.

"The police were really nice with everyone and joined in. I just hope we do this again.”

Many people in the disability community lack trust in police and can be reluctant to report crime because of challenges they face when making reports, such as being unable to provide a clear account of what happened or not being believed.

Nardia Stovell, Coordinator of Benalla Social Connections, said Scope, Yooralla, and Victoria Police joined forces to help break down these barriers through a colour walk and barbecue lunch.

“The Community Colour Splash was an opportunity for people with disability to connect with local police officers and break down barriers, while building new friendships with participants from other local disability service providers,” said Nardia.   

“We wanted to support our clients to build trust in police, feel safe to access their support, and increase their confidence to report crime so they feel better supported in their community.” 

James Bland, Yooralla Acting Service Manager, said this was an important opportunity for the disability community in Benalla.

“To see Yooralla and Scope participants connect with each other and our local police was amazing. This event was very important to the Yooralla team because it fosters a united community with the common goal of instilling confidence in our teams with the local police and each other.”  

Jenni Lamod, Senior Sergeant at Victoria Police Benalla, said events like the colour walk are a powerful way to build connections between police and community.  

“It provides an opportunity for those who may only encounter police when they are in crisis or in fear to interact with us in a relaxed and fun environment. It was a positive experience for all.”

The Community Colour Splash was made possible by a $1500 ‘Social Connections’ grant from Benalla Rural City Council’s Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG), funded by the Victorian Government’s Department of Health.  

Representatives from the council came to see the action, including Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn and Bridget Moran, SIAG Coordinator.

Bridget said SIAG was proud to support the initiative as it aligns with its core mission of fostering social inclusion and connection in the community.

"The collaboration between Scope, Yooralla, and Victoria Police is a great example of how diverse organisations can come together to create accessible and inclusive social experiences, something the SIAG is deeply committed to," said Bridget.

"They have worked together to break down barriers, challenge misconceptions, and build trust and inclusivity. It has been great to collaborate with such respected local organisations and we’re proud to support efforts that strengthen connections within the Benalla community."

This article was written by Scope and shared with permission.