Kyle Saunders knows firsthand that a strong connection with culture and a solid support network can take people a long way and help them through hard times.
The Gomeroi man has been appointed Newcastle City Police District's first Aboriginal community liaison officer (ACLO) and hopes to bring this spirit of trust, engagement and teamwork to the role.
Senior police officers and Mr Saunders believe an ACLO dedicated to serving the local community is a significant step forward.
Mr Saunders works closely with members of Aboriginal communities, schools, families and service providers to build relationships and understanding with police.
He engages with young people, supports community safety initiatives, celebrates culture, and aims to reduce contact with the justice system.
Almost two months into his new job, Mr Saunders said being the bridge between community and police was his favourite part.
"To build that safe place for the community to come in whenever they need help, whatever the situation is," he said.
"It's not something that can be built overnight, it is long journey."
Mr Saunders grew up in Moree before a scholarship took him to the northern beaches of Sydney, where he went through the Manly Sea Eagles junior rugby league program.
He moved to Newcastle with his young family in 2019 to continue with the Kurri Kurri Bulldogs and now Cardiff Cobras.
Mr Saunders has seen how sport brings people together. The Hunter has become home and he has developed deep connections.
"Being connected with culture ... for me it's an identity. Knowing who you are and where you are from and who your mob is is important," he said.
Mr Saunders has experience working with young people and wants to continue that.
"Being a good mentor for the kids, showing them that they are being cared for," he said.
"We want to support them and help them get on the right track and the way they can build their own futures as they see fit.
"We want to show them how hard work and dedication can lead to success. It doesn't have to be a big mansion or anything ... a strong connection with culture and building a strong family will take you a long way."
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On any day at work, Mr Saunders could be in the office, meeting with service providers, playing handball with kids during NAIDOC Week at school, supporting someone in custody or liaising with family members at hospital.
"I just want to do as much as I can, as best as I can," he said.
And he is already making a difference. Newcastle police leaders have praised his commitment to culture, his ability to connect with people from all backgrounds, and his desire to be a positive force within the community.
"I don't know what we've ever done without him," Newcastle Inspector Kristin Marshall said.
