The Safer Cambridge Trust continues to play a vital role in fostering a safe, connected and engaged community. With the support and collective expertise of our members, we proudly run both Neighbourhood Support and the Community Patrol—two initiatives that are thriving and helping to keep Cambridge safe and supported.
Our Trust meets monthly, where members bring their wealth of knowledge and shared commitment to shaping a safer future. Beyond direct safety work, we also serve as passionate advocates for the community and promote positive engagement across all walks of life.
This month, we are pleased to introduce three of our valued members:
JOCELYN COONEY
I have practiced as a lawyer for 50 years and for the last 36 years I have run my own legal firm. I specialise in Family Law.
I am currently the Solicitor for a number of Community Organisations based in Cambridge such as Cambridge Parents Centre, The Cambridge Health and Community Trust, Cambridge Safer Community Charitable Trust, Grey Power Cambridge, Cambridge Rotary Club, Cambridge Autumn Festival Trust, Cambridge Riding for the Disabled, The Linda Jones Riding for the Disabled Foundation and Cambridge Creative Fibre Inc.
I was a Trustee (elected parent representative) on the board of Salisbury School in Nelson for over 14 years but have recently retired from that role and have received a long service award from the School Trustees Association.[1]
In 2011 I was presented with a Community Services Award by the Waipa District Council for leadership in my profession and in recognition of my services to the Community.
In 2018 I had conferred upon me a Queens Service Medal for service to the Community.
Neil Bridgland
Born in Auckland. Married, wife Nurse(retd) & with 2 sons living in Australia & Tamahere, 3 grand children
Resident in Cambridge since August 1986. Was involved in Junior rugby, Chairman Leamington Scout group & learn to swim instructor. Member Leamington Squash club.
Came to manage Aotearoa Export meat works after periods working in Auckland, Gisborne, Wellington, Australia & London. After plant closed 1994 spent period in Bay of Islands commissioning new AFFCO plant before returning to Cambridge.
Spent 36 years working in management in various Export Meat plants in NZ & Australia including as Regional North Island Manager for AFFCO, General Manager of meat plants for Richmond Meat Export & Silver Fern Farms. Left Meat industry in 2006
Managed Cambridge private family business involved in National distribution of Appliance parts incl F&P & Electrolux, Heating elements & refrigeration controls for 10 years retiring in 2016.
Joined Cambridge Community Patrol on 2017 Start up as Chairman Leading Patrol for last 8 years.
Also Joined Cambridge Men’s Rebus Club 2017 serving term as President & still on Club executive
Enjoying retirement with Bike riding, walking & International travel.
Philip Coles
Philip and family have proudly called Cambridge and surrounding area home for the past 166 years! Philip is a local farmer.
Current Cambridge Ward Councillor for Waipa District Council. Is a Director on 2 National Boards.
Along with being involved with the Cambridge Safer Community Trust and President of Cambridge Greypower, Philip enjoys exploring the outdoors and is actively out running, hiking and biking plus many other activities.
Philip has 2 adult sons; Thomas is a wealth manager for Coutts Bank in London and James is a policeman in Hamilton. Finally Philip has a grandson Henry who is the 7th Generation of the family in our community.