Thursday, July 3, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Coffee With A Cop Brews Community Connection At Whitsunday Plaza

The fifth annual Coffee with a Cop event was held at Whitsunday Plaza on Wednesday, 2 July, and proved to be another successful morning of community connection and conversation.

The popular initiative, which has become a trusted platform for building relationships between local police and the public, once again delivered on its goal of breaking down barriers in a relaxed, approachable setting.

“Sometimes people are reluctant to speak to police because of the position that we hold,” said Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan, Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Station.

“Many people only ever encounter police during serious, stressful situations—or when receiving a traffic ticket. Coffee with a Cop is a way to change that dynamic. There’s no better way to connect than sitting down for a casual conversation over coffee.”

"I've had a really good conversation around neighbourhood watch, and around e-scooters. These scooters are quite topical at the moment.

"I also had chats with people around the safety of Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays."

Anthony Moynihan explained that compared to other regional towns, the Whitsundays is very safe, and mainly experience break-ins rather than severe crimes.

The global initiative made its welcome return to Whitsunday Plaza, with Sergeant Billy Li among the officers engaging with locals throughout the morning.

Locals of all ages stopped by to chat, asked questions, and enjoyed the opportunity to get to know their local officers beyond the uniform. With great turnout and warm conversations, the event was once again a clear success.

The Whitsunday Plaza hosted the Whitsunday Station officers for Coffee With a Cop. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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