Hume has recently been appointed a new inspector, Dean Clinton. He spoke with Michaela Meade about his new role, and how keen he is to hear from the community he now serves.
What is your connection to Hume?
Apart from travelling on the Hume Highway and heading to the airport, I haven’t spent a lot of time in Hume prior to commencing in this role. However, in the past five months I have had the privilege of getting to know some of the local stakeholders, and by getting out in the community I am finding the local residents are both passionate about the area and proud of where they live. The connection for me is always community and that’s what I will continue to build on while I have the privilege of serving here.
What do you enjoy most about the area?
I love that the area is diverse, both in its culture and it’s geography. It’s full of amazing people from over 150 countries and the area includes a mix of city, suburban and rural areas and incorporates major infrastructure, retail precincts and transport hubs.
Why did you become an inspector?
I joined Victoria Police to help people. In the Inspector role I get to have a broader impact on the service we provide and what we focus on. Essentially, I feel I get to help even more people. I am committed to working with the community, to ensure we provide a service that meets their needs and expectations. My role is a rewarding one.
What do you hope to achieve as the new Hume inspector?
My vision for Hume Police is to be more accessible, more responsive and more informative to the community, while improving community safety. There will be more opportunities to engage with police formally and informally and from a crime perspective, we will have a heavy focus on serious and violent crime, including crimes against the person and family violence. Putting our people where they’re needed, to solve emerging issues and hold offenders to account is my priority.
What do you do on your time off from work?
I’m into anything active, mountain biking, running, hiking, camping, anything that gets me outdoors and amongst nature.
What is one thing about you that people would be surprised to learn?
I used to sing in a band, but can’t remember the words to songs. I am terrible at it and just make them up as I go along.
What do you want the community to know about you?
I am committed to listening to them and working with them, to ensure the area is a safe and vibrant place to live, work and play.
