Police & Community Youth Clubs (PCYC)

Inspector Bill Winwood from Burnie brought in his team of unmarked PCYC (Police Community Youth Club) officers to spread community awareness about the PCYC, or what we know as the old Police Boys' Club. One of the faces he brought along were our well known retired mare Peter Hollingworth who amongst many other worthwhile hats he wears is also the president of the Mersey PCYC. The main talk was delivered by Snr-Sgt Danny Russell who is passionate on the subject of youths.

Although we recognise the old Police Boys to traditionally operate from their own buildings, the Police Community Youth Clubs are now utilising existing infrastructure such as community sport-centres, gyms and public facilities. This has created the need for Mobile Activity Centers which roam to where they are needed, loaded full of useful equipment to conduct almost any kind of sports activities including basketball, volleyball, cricket, and baseball to name a few. There are four units operating throughout Tasmania shared between the 13 clubs within our state. It was noted that on a National basis the PCYC is a bigger movement then the Scouts, and that as such the resources are there to make a huge impact on our youth.

The PCYC seeks out problem cohorts and recruits young members in those areas, often trying to include the bullies. Well designed activities have shown to be highly effective in reducing bullying and criminal behaviour. Channeling the youths' energy into worthwhile activities and introducing them to SES and Army Reserves and other organisations where they can continue to flourish as young adults has been proven to not only reduce petty crime in communities, but also generate leadership in the community.

Over the years it has been difficult to find members of the public to volunteer with the organisation and Peter, Danny and Inspector Bill are currently on a publicity tour to foster interest in the community and recruit volunteers into their system. If you are interested their new website is: www.pcyctas.org or alternatively contact them on the numbers below:

Police and Community Youth Clubs: 

• Hobart: (03) 6230 2246;
  
• Clarence: (03) 6230 2832;
  
• Bridgewater: (03) 6263 5277;
  
• Sorell: (03) 6265 4950;
  
• Rokeby: (Police Academy) (03) 6230 2000
  
• Launceston: (03) 6344 2411
  
• Burnie: (03) 6431 2139