Torch Run to Gippsland to support Special Olympics

Victoria Police will join local athletes and police from across the country for a Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) to raise awareness and promote the inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities.

Starting today, the LETR, held in partnership with Special Olympics Victoria, will take place between Melbourne and Lakes Entrance, with the flame of hope being carried through towns and ‘Come and Try’ sports events in many locations.

The Gippsland Region Engagement and Awareness Tour (GREAT) will commence at 8.30am today from the Victoria Police Centre and finish in Trafalgar on Friday 13 September.

LETR patron and Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton said the run was a key event to raise community awareness and improve outcomes for people with disabilities.

“Attending these events and seeing our people participate alongside the athletes and their families, it is clear that community engagement is not just about interacting with people on matters of law enforcement but it is enjoying the spirit and excitement of the community,” he said.

“When you see how excited the athletes are when it is their turn to run with the torch or when they compete in an event and receive their medal from LETR and police members, we are truly connecting with the community we are entrusted to police.”

Event Manager Inspector Matt Volk said one of the key pillars for the tour was raising awareness for people living with intellectual disability and the support which LETR provided.

“There will also be a number of ‘come and try’ sports events which promote the importance of physical activity and wellbeing, so we’re encouraging the community to come cheer us on as we run with the torch and get involved in the events locally.”

The Law Enforcement Torch Run will be stopping at the below locations:

Monday 9 September

8.30am – Melbourne Victoria Police Centre

11.30am – Warragul Torch Run

12.30pm – Warragul ‘Come and Try’ event at Civic Park

3pm – Korumburra Torch Run

Tuesday 10 September

10am – Leongatha Torch Run

10.30am – Leongatha ‘Come and Try’ event at Mary Checkley Reserve

2pm – Moe Torch Run

Wednesday 11 September

10am – Traralgon – Torch Run

10.30am – Traralgon ‘Come and Try’ event at Victory Park

12.30pm – Sale Torch Run

1pm – Sale ‘Come and Try’ event at McMillan Park, Sale

Thursday 12 September

12pm – Bairnsdale Torch Run

12.30pm – Bairnsdale ‘Come and Try’ event at Davison Oval

Friday 13 September

12pm – Trafalgar Torch Run

For information on the ‘Come and Try’ events, contact Special Olympics Australia on [email protected]

/Public Release. View in full here.