Saturday, September 20, 2025 saw the creation of a Community Safety Expo (second annual) with the Duncan/North Cowichan RCMP hosting the event at the new detachment location in Duncan.
This event attracted 42 exhibitors and about 1200 members of the public who attended during the three hours on a warm afternoon. Displays included fire, ambulance, First Nations, Search and Rescue, RCMP recruiting and 911 booths, and many others including free food and coffee and games for the youth.
We spent some conversation time with the Mayor of North Cowichan to tell him about our current progress and projects we have completed or are in progress in his area. These included the provision of “Trauma Bears” for all police vehicles, increased communication with summaries of our key categories as to tips, and inclusion of the yearly proclamation of “Crime Stoppers Month in January. We were able to have a conversation with the OIC and other police officers with whom we keep in touch.
With Glenn Atkins, our Vice-President (right) and Bruce Stevenson, our newest Director and equipment guru (center), we put on our best-yet display with our newer tent, new tablecloth, banner and the usual swag including mini handcuffs and writing pads.
These events that bring together local law enforcement officials, volunteers from various organizations, and the public who are always the best advertising for us all. Central Vancouver Island Crime Stoppers believes in engaging the community by attending these events to spread the word and engage our “See Something, Say Something” motto. Except for our tent photograph, I have attached photos taken by RCMP which show the extent of the exhibits.
Staff Sergeant Deb Kelly of the RCMP provided her perspective. “We are so proud of this event. Our Community Expo Safety was extremely well received last year, and we are excited to make it annual event. Bringing so many different service and safety organizations together in one event is a unique educational experience that we are honoured to host for our community.”
“The Community Safety Expo continues to build positive relationships within our community and fosters positive engagement with our youth. It gives the community a chance to learn about all of the incredible services in the Cowichan Valley that work hard, in both paid and volunteer capacities, to keep us and our families safe, “she concluded.
Many thanks to Haley and her group at the detachment for pulling together this event for bringing together people, equipment and food into a well-run learning environment. We look forward to next year.
Brian Cornborough | President
Drone shot
RCMP photo