A little bit about how the bears came to be
The NSW Police Wives and Friends support group started in 1987. Then known as the Police Wives Chapel Support Group, they formed with the intention of raising $1,000 to go towards the stained glass windows in the new Police Chapel in Goulburn. The ladies made many craft items such as jams, pickles, aprons, puddings, and coat hangers. In 1989, the ladies started making and dressing dolls in police uniforms. Called The Academy Kids, we still have a couple of these treasured dolls in our Bear Cupboard. Their amazing efforts raised in excess of $100,000, which was donated to the chapel fund.
In 1993, the current bears in blue were conceived of by Elaine Chapman. The ladies would meet in their own homes to have sewing days. Over the years, they went on to meet and have their sewing days at the Burwood PCYC, and now use the boardroom and storage cupboards in the NSWPL office. There are jobs in the bear factory for everyone. Some stuff, some stitch, some assemble and some stitch on expressions on their faces - every one of which is different!
The group say they are very grateful for the welcome and support that NSWPL gives them. We say we are very grateful to have them, and they will always be welcome!