Community & Business
24 June, 2026
Local officer bridging the gap
IN an effort to make meaningful connections within the community she serves, a Mareeba police officer recently volunteered her time to deliver free haircuts at Ignite Community Hub.
Officer Shanna Kidd, a former hairdresser of nearly 20 years, said it was nice to get involved in the community and make meaningful connections.
“It was a really good experience engaging with the younger community, as well as everybody else who was there,” she said
“One lady whose hair I cut was telling me how she’s always wanted to become a PLO (Police Liaison Officer) and I gave her some good advice and reminded her that it’s not too late to apply.
“I was a hairdresser for 18 years before becoming a police officer and I think this is a really positive way for police to engage with the community – and I think it’s a wonderful program that Shana (hub founder) is running there.
“I think it’s also a good opportunity to show people that police aren’t all that scary and that we’re just people as well and we all have different skills. A lot of us have come from different trades and that just helps us relate so much more with the community.”
Hub founder Shana Aue said the simple act of service had a meaningful impact.
“It helps us to continue to create a welcoming environment where people can access support, have conversations, and experience positive engagement with police outside of their usual roles,” he said.
“Through Ignite Cuts Academy, we aim to use barbering as a way to build confidence, encourage connection, and support community wellbeing. Having police officers contribute their time demonstrates the importance of small actions that help strengthen relationships and bring people together.
“We believe this is a great example of community members and local services working together to make a difference.”
Officer Kidd said she would most likely continue to pop in to the hub from time-to-time to give more haircuts and continue engaging with the community.
Ignite Community Hub is open from Monday to Friday and anyone is invited to call by and have a chat.
