Constable Kenny Koala changes hands
Constable Kenny Koala will change hands this week as long-time colleague and friend, Stewart Waters, retires from ACT Policing.
Constable Kenny has been a visible figure in the ACT educating Canberra children on how to stay safe for more than 40 years. Stewart Waters joined ACT Policing as Constable Kenny’s handler in 2002 and has dedicated countless hours to educating Canberra children on how to stay safe.
Constable Kenny expressed his gratitude towards Stewart Waters for his years of friendship and service during an emotional farewell today (Tuesday 18 July).
“Stewart has been my handler, colleague and friend for nearly 15 years. While it’s difficult to say goodbye, we’ve done some great work together over the years and I know Stew has a lot of fun plans for his retirement.”
“Together, Stew and I have visited more than 20,000 school kids each year. We’ve taught them how to stay OK on the roads, in the community and even online.”
“My time with Stew saw some big changes to the program. Over the last few years I’ve learnt how to tweet, I’ve got a new website and I’ve even got some new friends helping me teach kids about safety.”
“I want to thank Stew for always believing in me, even when others said I was just a puppet. He’s always been there to lend a hand and I could not have done my job without him. Stewart, I wish you all the best,” Constable Kenny said.
ACT Policing’s Constable Kenny program is designed to educate preschool and primary-aged school children between three to 12 years of age on a range of safety themes, and to encourage them to turn to police for help and advice.
The changing of hands marks a new era in Constable Kenny’s career alongside his new partner, David Packwood. Constable Kenny and David will continue to provide the educational service throughout Canberra, with no changes to the program content, availability or booking system.
To find out more or book a free school visit with Constable Kenny, visit constablekennykoala.org.au
Media enquiries Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au