Caught by the fuzz

By Bridget Brady
Five police officers at the station have embraced the Movember spirit, with four raising money as part of team Cranbourne Fuzz.
Leading Senior Constable Brett Owen said ‘fuzz’ was a British reference for police, but didn’t deny it had something to do with the quality of moustaches at the station.
“There are various comments from a lot of members and public about progress and substance. Some are better at it than others, but it’s good healthy banter,” Ldg Sen Const Owen said.
Movember is undertaken to raise money for and awareness of prostate cancer and mental health issues.
These causes were meaningful to police, especially for Sergeant Barry Jeffrey.
“My main motivation for being involved in Movember is that my Dad had prostate problems last year and I wanted to raise awareness of the importance of getting your prostate checked,” Sgt Jeffrey said.
Ldg Sen Const Owen said police also worked with members of the public affected by mental illness.
“Due to the nature of police work members regularly come into contact with people with varying degrees of mental health issues. This is a great way for us to show the community that we support this important issue,” he said.
“It’s a good talking point, and that’s part of it – getting people talking about what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.”
Leading Senior Constable Kris Griffiths said he had taken part in Movember since 2004.
“This is the first year I’ve started a work team and obviously to raise awareness for men’s health, in particular depression,” he said.
Cranbourne Fuzz has raised about $700 so far, and is looking for more donations.
To donate, search for Cranbourne fuzz at au.movember.com/donate/