 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Yuen Long youths find their greener side
 Green machine: Yuen Long DC T.J. Oakes with a troop of camping kids in Pak Tam Chung |
Exposed to the inevitable youth troubles which can haunt a new town, 92 youngsters in Yuen Long instead learned the value of a healthy lifestyle, community service and teamwork under the Project Polar Star.
Launched by Yuen Long District in February 1998 as an undertow against rising juvenile crime and to encourage healthy personal growth among the area's youths, a team of caring police officers 'hung out' in places known for breeding youth problems, such as billiard halls, video game centres and football pitches, introducing themselves to 12 to 18-year-olds.
The police effort won widespread community support and after running for well over a year, the project has seen 367 youths contacted, resulting in the participation of 46 males and 46 females.
Their performance and improvements were so encouraging, it culminated in a forestry camp held during the summer holidays from August 9 to 11, in Pak Tam Chung, Sai Kung.
The camp introduced the teens to their ecosystem and allowed them to explore aspects of environmental protection. By immersing themselves in the forestry camp, the youths also learnt to look after themselves and gain a better understanding of their rights and obligations.
District Commander of Yuen Long, T.J. Oakes, and Police Community Relations Officer, Ngan Cheuk-leung, joined participants in tree planting and other nature-preserving activities.
Participants won praise from camp attendants and were awarded a certificate of appreciation by the Nature Conservation Section of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department (AFD). One outstanding participant was even recommended by an AFD tutor to run for the Outstanding Participant Contest.