By Peter Douglas
Would-be criminals beware!
The Yarra Ranges will soon boast an extensive CCTV network that includes locations in business centres of nine major locations.
Designed to significantly lower crime and assist local police, from next month the security network will be rolled out in Yarra Glen, Woori Yallock, Mooroolbark, Belgrave, Mount Evelyn and Monbulk.
This will complement the existing network that operates in Lilydale, Healesville and Yarra Junction.
The cameras will record 24/7 and be available for viewing from Lilydale Police Station.
In an emergency scenario, live viewing could be enabled from the station.
Casey MP Tony Smith has fulfilled his re-election promise to see the expansion of the initial security measures, with $420,000 in funding secured for the new cameras.
Crime prevention officer, Leading Senior Constable Linda Hancock, said the camera network was a proven crime-fighting tool.
“Offenders are increasingly likely to travel into the Yarra Ranges to commit crimes, so we can see who is coming in and out of the town,” Leading Sen-Constable Hancock said.
“If an alarm goes off, we can simply see who is around at that time.
“The latest installations will take the network to nine locations.
“I’ve been working with Tony for many years on this matter, so it will be great to see it come together.”
Leading Sen-Constable Hancock said the cameras would supplement the existing network.
“These are major intersections, connecting other large townships that have cameras, and this forms part of that wider network we’re trying to achieve,” Leading Sen-Constable Hancock said.
“It’s not a crime hotspot – yes, crime happens, but it’s a sense of community feeling of safety.
“We’ve actually got no investigative tools – it’s a long process at the moment with no cameras.”
Community groups will be entrusted with the maintenance of the cameras, groups such as the Woori Yallock Township Action Group (WYTAG).
Yarra Glen is believed to be the first town to have CCTV installed, with the remaining installations to take place throughout June and July.
Once completed, Mr Smith expected a major boost in community safety.
“I’ve had many conversations with local residents and the business community about the need for CCTVS to combat crime in their communities,” he said.
“Whether it is theft, graffiti, assault or other serious matters, this will help police to bring offenders to justice.
“The network in Lilydale, Yarra Junction and Healesville has proven to be effective in combating and deterring crime.”
Mr Smith first announced his plan in June last year, with the funds to come through the Coalition’s Safer Communities Fund.
*Funding breakdown includes:
Mooroolbark – $135,000; Yarra Glen – $90,000; Monbulk – $75,000; Mount Evelyn – $75,000; Woori Yallock – $45,000.
