By JONATHON HOWARD
A GROUP of concerned Warwick residents have joined forces with government agencies to take a stand against drug and alcohol abuse, which they say is tearing our community apart.
As the national spend on illicit drugs continues to reach record levels and more young people turn to a life of substance abuse, Johnno Felton of the Warwick Suicide Prevention Group says enough is enough.
Mr Felton is now leading a call for Southern Downs’ residents to take a stand; report a drug abuser and walk against substance abuse this September.
Mr Felton said the community had a responsibility to stand up against illegal drugs to ensure a brighter future for local children.
“Enough is enough,” he said.
“This is everyone’s chance to take a stand against substance abuse that leads so many down a path of crime, addiction, depression and even suicide.”
Mr Felton said anyone who thought drugs and alcohol abuse was not an issue in Warwick and surrounding towns needed to wake up.
“It’s everywhere you look in Warwick, it’s in our schools – kids are dealing in our schools – they’re dealing in our shops and supermarkets; and there are dealers on every corner,” he said.
Mr Felton said the group was organising a Family Fun River Run/Walk, to raise awareness for the issue and develop a united front against substance abuse on 15 September.
The group will walk or run for about three kilometres around the river with entertainment, stalls and a range of activities available on the day.
Representatives from the Warwick Suicide Prevention Group, headspace, Yellow Cabs, Best Employment, Drug-Arm and the Warwick Police have backed the campaign.
Warwick Police crime prevention officer Constable Wendy Tamblyn said communication with police was crucial to try and address drug and alcohol abuse across the Southern Downs.
“Communicating concerns including known drug users or dealers goes a long way in helping police fight back against drugs,” Const Tamblyn said.
Const Tamblyn said police rely on the public to inform police of issues affecting the community including known drug dealers or users.
Anyone with information which could assist with this matter should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously via 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au 24hrs a day.
Crime Stoppers is a registered charity and community volunteer organisation working in partnership with the Queensland Police Service.
For all non-urgent police reporting or general police inquiries contact Policelink on 131 444.
