Halloween in the Hills

It’s no secret that Halloween has its haters here in Australia. Growing up, we never participated in it and rarely had people knocking at our door. We asked our parents if we could do it – costumes and lollies, what’s not to love about that?! But the answer was always a flat out no to this “crap American tradition”.

Forty years on the haters still exist. But slowly, year by year, the Halloween movement gains a little more momentum as increasing numbers of Aussies embrace this occasion – or maybe it’s more a case of their kids have worn them down with incessant nagging!

But based on the chatter in the Hills District Mums Facebook group over the last ten years, pockets of the Hills are really embracing it and having a fabulous time trick or treating.

Unlike certain suburbs known for their lights at Christmas time, there’s no particular street renowned for their awesome Halloween set up or the best treats going – it’s more about neighbours getting together so the kids can have a bit of fun. Well that seems to be the Aussie interpretation anyway. We’re sure some American purists are horrified!

One of the best ideas we’ve seen is this note that parents with trick or treaters were giving to neighbours in their street with a balloon attached if they were wanting to participate.

Source: Facebook

NSW Police recommend you do not participate in this activity. However, if you choose to participate, here are some things you should consider:

• Is it safe to take lollies or chocolate from strangers?

• Do I know the person whose door I am knocking on?

• Will I get into trouble from police if I play a ‘prank’ or damage property?

• What if a stranger talks to me?

 

Remember your safety tips from the NSW Police ‘Keeping Me Safe’ initiative:

• Safety in numbers! Walk in a group. Never walk alone. Ensure you have adult supervision.

• Hold hands and cross roads at safe locations such as marked crossings and/or traffic light intersections. Don’t forget to ‘Stop, Look, Listen and Think.’

• Do not talk to strangers other than the people nominated as ‘Safe people’ from ‘Safe places’.

• If you feel unsafe or unsure, remember to tell a stranger ‘No’ ‘Stop’ and/or ‘Go away’.

 

If you would still like to celebrate the occasion, perhaps you could consider celebrating at home.

Police will not tolerate poor behaviour, particularly in public, so remember your manners just like every other day of the year.

Call 000 if you require immediate assistance or 9680 5399 for Castle Hill Police.