Students were last week visited by police officers and the Matthew Stanley Foundation to take part in an initiative promoting youth safety.
In 2006, Matthew Stanley lost his life after being being a victim of youth violence.
The 15 year old was a talented sportsman who excelled academically and he touched the hearts of many people, from peers to young children, adults, students, teachers and parents.
With an outpouring of community grief, Matthew’s parents Paul and Kay and brother Nick, were joined by good people to form the Matthew Stanley Foundation.
The Foundation partners with individuals, community groups, businesses and elected representatives to promote youth safety initiatives such as One Punch Can Kill and Party Safe campaigns.
Now, 15 years after Matthew’s death, Paul Stanley continues to tell the story of the night that changed his and his families lives forever.
With the support of Bundaberg Police and The Waves, Paul has been busy this week presenting to schools in Childers, Gin Gin as well as North Bundaberg State High School, Bundaberg State High School and Kepnock State High School.
It is not everyday you can hear a pin drop in a guest speaker presentation at a school, however, this is certainly the case when Paul speaks about his traumatic experience in losing his son.
School-based police officers Senior Constables Mick Gray and Michael Lederhose have been working closely with Paul to ensure his story is told to as many high school students as possible.
“If this foundation can help save one life than this is all worthwhile” Paul Stanley said.
Fellow officers from Bundaberg Police showed their support to Paul and the Foundation by attending the presentations and hearing his recount of that fatal night.
The story has not only influenced the students but also of the officers attending, with tears being wiped away and comments that officers would go home and hug their children that much tighter.
Senior Constable Mick Gray said he believed the presentation added another level to stopping youth violence.
“Having Paul speak about a real life story and as sad and horrible one at that, adds another level to this important message,” he said.
For more information regarding the Matthew Stanley Foundation listen to the audio here.
If you know of an organisation or school that would benefit from a presentation from the Matthew Stanley Foundation contact Bundaberg Police at DCPC.Bundaberg@police.qld.gov.au or visit https://www.facebook.com/MatthewStanleyFoundation.
