Night patrols providing big benefits for Bulla

The new night patrols have led to significant social and economic benefits in the remote Northern Territory community of Bulla.

The night patrols are providing a vital source of employment for local Aboriginal residents, and an increased number of local residents are taking an interest in community affairs.

The patrols have also played a direct role in preventing and resolving alcohol-related incidents in Bulla since they were introduced – stopping the disturbances from escalating, diverting people from potential trouble and helping to maintain a peaceful community at night.

Since the night patrols were introduced in Bulla in September, 2012, there has been a reduction in incidents of violence and alcohol-related disturbances. Local residents have directly attributed the drop to the introduction of the night patrols.

The Bulla night patrol service currently employs three local Aboriginal residents. An additional Aboriginal resident who also started as a night patrol officer has benefitted from the experience to gain employment at the community school as a teacher aide.

The community patrol is the first permanent job for the Aboriginal staff – and for some it is their first employment experience.

The night patrols form part of the Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory package – a 10-year $3.4 billion investment to tackle Indigenous disadvantage and drive positive change.

Bulla night patrol employees Stan Retchford and Natasha Laurie say they are very happy to now have a job and be working in their own community.

“I’ve gained confidence and received lots of training that has really helped me,” Stan says.

Community Elder, Jack Little, says he is very pleased that the community patrol service has been rolled out in Bulla.

“We don’t have the drinking, disturbances and loud noise that we sometimes used to get.  It is really noticeable how better things are since night patrol started here,” Jack says.

“Older people and children are getting a good sleep because night patrols are there for us to remind people to consider others.  I’m happy that there’s people out there in the dark to help anyone that needs it because we’re on our own here.  Getting kids in their home after dark is so important.  We need this night patrol.  It is really good for us.”

Community resident and grandmother of many children, Bessie Humbert, says she feels safe and reassured for her family now that the community patrol is in Bulla.

“I know there are people driving and walking around looking after us. We feel safe and are more peaceful,” she says.