Red Frogs marks 20 years on leavers week

Leavers 2017 begins on Monday and one of the event’s key organisations is celebrating a momentous occasion alongside the new graduates.

Red Frogs will mark 20 years of service next week, handing out the iconic red lollies while ensuring leavers safely enjoy the coming festivities.

Red Frogs WA general manager Hayden Glass has come down to Dunsborough for the 17th time and anticipates a fun-filled week.

“The State strategy around leavers week and all the support services involved mean it’s definitely becoming a safer week for young people,” Mr Glass said.

Red Frogs volunteers serve as a point of referral to professional services for leavers, and facilitate non-alcoholic activities alongside the celebrations.

While there have been concerns surrounding the shift into many new leavers being over 18, Mr Glass said he believed this was an advantage to the event.

“I think that it has become safer now that they’re a little older,” he said.

“They have a little more experience at parties and are looking after their younger mates, so the atmosphere at leavers is one of celebration and it’s amazing seeing everyone get involved.”

Police are expecting about 8000 leavers to flock to hotspots at Rottnest, Busselton and Dunsborough.

Police Minister Michelle Roberts stressed the importance of safety both at the events and on the road.