Dean Walker

Community constable

2014 SA Local Hero

A lynchpin in the Coober Pedy and Oodnadatta communities, Senior Community Constable Dean Walker has shown excellence in bravery, sensitivity and cultural awareness.  From rescuing two young girls from a swollen river to helping young Indigenous offenders get their lives back on track, Dean goes beyond the call of duty to make a difference to his community and the lives of the people he serves.  Dean uses his advocacy, communication and leadership skills to connect the local Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, and to influence society for the better.  Dean was responsible for delivering the South Australian Police Aboriginal cultural awareness program, which increased the police service’s cultural knowledge of Indigenous issues.  Dean gives back in many ways – from coaching sporting teams, to bringing together young and old Aboriginal men, to promoting bush skills and positive role models. Dean’s quiet, patient and thoughtful approach to policing and community-building has won the respect of people from Coober Pedy, Oodnadatta and surrounding areas.