Senior Constable Les Power said about 80 people united in Dimboola for the annual Wimmera River Challenge. 

“We had about 35 people on the river at one time,” he said. 

“We actually had Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s single kayak out there.

“He gave it to the Blues and Brothers group in Ballarat a year ago and they donated or sold it to us.”

Senior Constable Power said festivities started on Friday night as Barengi Gadjin Land Council entertained children and adults alike with cultural displays. 

He said the event is a fantastic initiative that forms bonds between organisations and the Koori community. 

“The outcomes are absolutely fantastic,” he said.

“It builds and strengthens relationships.

“People get to know each other, it’s pretty basic and down to earth.

“With your feet on the river in beautiful conditions you can paddle and have a chat about the world.”

Senior Constable Power said the event forms great bonds between Victoria Police, Wimmera Uniting Care, Grampians Community Health and children. 

“You meet children and that’s the most important part,” he said.

“They get to know you and say g’day, you build a relationship and from there on it gets stronger and stronger. 

“It’s a great weekend and the next will be even bigger and better.

“A big thank you to everyone who had put in a lot of time and effort especially Goolum-Goolum and Barengi Gadjin Land Council.”