A drizzle of rain didn’t dampen the spirits of Fitzgerald State School students, staff, families – or even the police dog – who all took part in National Walk to School Day last Friday.
Held annually on May 16, the event promotes a healthy and safe approach to getting to school while reinforcing key road safety messages for children.
Parents, teachers and students were joined by representatives from Queensland Police, including Police Liaison Officer Rebecca Budby and Sergeant Felipe Peraza – with his loyal canine partner, Baron, a three-year-old Labrador trained in narcotics and gunpowder detection.
“I have my nieces and nephews who attend Fitzgerald, so I try my best to come along, engage with the students and support them,” said Officer Budby.
“We want them to be safe walking to school – making sure they know how to stop and look both ways when crossing the road, wear helmets when riding bikes or scooters – just those little things that make a big difference.”
Officer Budby also thanked the school for welcoming both her and the Dog Squad.
“It’s wonderful that we’re able to attend, and I know the kids love having Baron around too.”
Sergeant Peraza said Baron soaked up the attention as children crowded around the friendly police dog.
“It’s extremely important to bring a little education to kids around road safety, and to show them that we’re here to help,” he said.
“Events like this build those early positive relationships between children and police – and help us be good role models.”
Fitzgerald State School Deputy Principal Tim Campbell praised the initiative, saying it was a great way to bring the whole school community together.
“With over 630 students, it’s not often we get to share an experience like this altogether,” he said.
“Having parents involved and police helping reinforce safety messages on the walk was a valuable experience for all the children.”
“Given today’s turnout, I’d love to see this become an annual event. We’ve got a safe pathway leading up to the school, and it’s a great way to encourage kids to be active and aware each morning.”
Fitzgerald State School celebrated National Walk to School Day with students, families, police officers, and a friendly detection dog, promoting road safety and healthy habits despite the rain.
Baron, a three-year-old Labrador trained in narcotics and gunpowder detection, had a tail-wagging good time walking to school alongside Fitzgerald students.
Queensland Police Representatives: Sergeant Felipe Peraza, Drug Detection Dog Baron and Police Liaison Officer Rebecca Budby. Photo credit Hannah McNamara
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