Volume 16 Issue 1, July 2016
Print Post 100018975
www.nhw.com.au
THE ONLY WEBSITE YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT!
nhw.com.au The Neighbourhood Watch State website is constantly being updated and features various tips on how to be safe and secure. There are also many volunteers who work on the Local Government Areas of the website and do a fantastic job. Please show your support of the volunteers and visit nhw.com.au
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CONTENTS Volume 16, Issue 2, July 2016 2
Acting CEO’s Message
3
We need a plan
5
Mildura NHW
6
City of Banyule volunteer awards
8
KC says: you are never too young to learn about safety!
9
Barwon Heads goes ahead
10
Greater Dandenong
11
Dederang and District Branch family movie night
12
Cobram NHW
13
Greater Shepparton NHW
14
Vale
Countrywide Austral Pty Ltd
16
Biggest Morning Tea 2016
Level 2, 310 King Street, Melbourne 3000 Postal: GPO Box 2466, Melbourne VIC 3001 Ph: (03) 9937 0200 Fax: (03) 9937 0201 Email: admin@cwaustral.com.au
18
Bayside rotunda “Lights Up”
19
NHW BSD12 making a difference
20
Opening of the Forest Hill Police Station
21
Operation Safe Plate Day with a difference
22
Deakin Community Awards
23
Police Liaison Officers List
24
Crime Prevention Officers List
Send all content to: publications@nhw.com.au Mailing Amendments or Enquiries For any amendments or enquiries regarding mailing please email: publications@nhw.com.au Advertisers Alert Countrywide Austral is appointed by Neighbourhood Watch Victoria Inc. as the authorised publisher of Sentinel. For enquiries regarding advertising in this magazine, please contact the publishers:
Art: Jason Jeffery and Kathryn Steel.
Disclaimer Countrywide Austral (“Publisher”) advises that the contents of this publication are at the sole discretion of Neighbourhood Watch Victoria (Inc.), and the publication is offered for information purposes only. The publication has been formulated in good faith and the Publisher believes its contents to be accurate. However, the contents do not amount to a recommendation (either expressly or by implication) and should not be relied upon in lieu of specific professional advice. Neighbourhood Watch Victoria (Inc.), make no representation, nor give any warranty or guarantee concerning the information provided. The Publisher disclaims all responsibility for any loss or damage which may be incurred by any reader relying upon the information contained in the publication whether that loss or damage is caused by any fault or negligence on the part of the publisher, its directors and employees.
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Copyright All advertisements appearing in this publication are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the consent of the owner of the copyright. Advertising Advertisements in this journal are solicited from organisations and businesses on the understanding that no special considerations other than those normally accepted in respect of commercial dealings, will be given to any advertiser.
ACTING CEO’S MESSAGE
FROM THE ACTING CEO
“W
e are from State Office and we are here to help.” Anybody who has been involved in an organisation which has branches spread over a number of locations has heard this or something similar, before. In many cases the comment was made ‘tongue in cheek’. In the case of NHW Victoria the sentiment is genuine.
Geoff Kloot Acting CEO Neighbourhood Watch Victoria Inc.
The State Office only exists to support the NHW groups in the field. It works with the NHW Victoria Board to develop policies, procedures and processes to help you in your crime-fighting work in your local communities. If the local groups did not exist there would be no need for the State Office. Having said that, it is important that the services we provide are those that the local groups need. The only way to know what you need is to ask you. To that end, you have been recently requested to provide information on your NHW as part of the annual reporting and on the criminal history checking process. The responses, particularly on the annual reporting, have been really good. This year we asked for the member lists to be in a particular format so that they all can be readily consolidated into a
What’s on? To see upcoming events, go to
www.nhw.com.au/Events (or select region/events)
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statewide database. The lists have been supplied as requested even though a number of the respondents were not Excel users and needed some help to achieve the result. We will continue to ask for your input on other NHW Victoria services such as the State Forums. I urge you to take a few minutes to respond to our requests for information because we can do better if we know what you need. We also welcome feedback particularly if you feel that there is a problem. Mistakes will be made from time to time but we can only correct them if we know about them. We are progressively adding more information to the NHW Victoria website. Our ultimate aim is that our members and the public in general, will be able to answer any question about NHW in Victoria, 24 hours a day, using the internet. Again, let us know if you have a question that you cannot answer by reference to the website. In the meantime, I thank you for your continuing great work in supporting your NHW and local police to make your community safer and a better place to live.
Have an event to share? Email admin@nhw.com.au
www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
We are not running BHP but we still need a plan M
ost things we do in life are planned. When you It should be emphasised that the Business Plan for a NHW arrange to meet friends at a restaurant for dinner, group does not need to be elaborate. The use of dot points is you make a note of the address and the meeting fine. The main purposes of a plan are to: time. At some point you probably check the travel time, and • Let you identify and list, in conjunction with the whether you have a nice ‘bottle of red’ to take. However, as local police, what needs to be done to reduce crime this is a very minor activity, you probably don’t bother to in your area. write down each of the steps required. • Allow you to spread your activities over the year. When it comes to a NHW group, made up of a number of members and with a range of activities for a year, there is a • Allow you to provide warning to your volunteers of when their help will be required. need to put some form of plan down in writing. This allows all members to know what is happening, when it is happening • Help you to budget for raising and spending funds. and what they are expected to do about it. The scope of the tasks that you propose to tackle in the year is generally called the Business Plan whilst the timetable is often called the Event/Activity Schedule. These two documents can be combined if you find it more convenient. The start of the financial year is a good time to develop your plans for the next 12 months.
“When it comes to a NHW group, made up of a number of members and with a range of activities for a year, there is a need to put some form of plan down in writing. This allows all members to know what is happening, when it is happening and what they are expected to do about it.”
SO HOW DO YOU DEVELOP YOUR BUSINESS PLAN? The main reason for NHW to exist is to support the police, so the starting point is to establish from the local police any specific crime concerns. For example, if theft from motor vehicles is a concern, then that would suggest that the plan should include “Lock, Look and Leave” inspections (checking for valuables visible in cars) and possibly Safe Plate Days (fitting one-way screws to number plates). A NHW information stand in a shopping centre, where you can talk to the locals about removing valuables from their cars, may also be considered. A Safe Plate Day needs fine weather, whereas a “Lock, Look and Leave” event could be rescheduled if the weather turns nasty. If the information stand is in a covered area it could be held almost any time of the year. So this gives you an idea of when to schedule these activities. Once the activities are on the calendar, you can alert your volunteers and start to make up attendance lists. You can also advise your local police so that they can schedule their members for the events. Finally, you can schedule any purchases such as NHW brochures and/or one-way screws. continued on page 4
www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
July 2016 • Sentinel
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FEATURE
EXAMPLE OF A BUSINESS PLAN (PART ONLY) Project
Description
Hold one-way screw (Safe Plate) fitting days
Develop techniques to bring NHW to parts of the municipality not currently serviced
Estimated Cost
Organise several fitting days over the 12-month period. These could be held in conjunction with another NHW. Develop alternative ways to provide NHW services in locations where traditional “Areas” did not operate.
Total Costs $80
2 fitting days at $40 each for screws, refreshments, NHW brochures
$100 for printing brochures and posters
$100
4 events at $50 each for publicity material and refreshments
$200
Hold displays at community events and festivals
Regularly provide displays at events with the opportunity to expose more of the community to the work of NHW.
Refurbish NHW street signs
Continue the replacement of 25 signs at $20 each damaged and missing signs to enhance the image of NHW.
$500
EXAMPLE OF AN EVENT SCHEDULE FOR COMMUNITY SAFETY MONTH (PART ONLY) Date
Event
Location
Time 0800–0930
Volunteers
Tue 6/10
Serpell Primary Walk to School
Serpell Primary Tuckers Road
Wed 7/10
Safety for Seniors
Schramm’s Cottage 1930–2030 Victoria Street
Program Team
Thu 8/10
NHW Victoria AGM
William Angliss
Delegates
1830–2100
Geoff A, Ian, George A, Tess, Brian, Raelene, Fred, George B, Geoff B
continued from page 3 After you have determined the projects for the year, individual events should be listed on an Event Schedule. Having said this, it is important to retain some flexibility in your plan. For example, if the police advise that there has been a jump in the number of residential burglaries, and that they urgently need a letter drop in an area, it may be necessary to defer a previously scheduled event to address this priority. This is much easier to do if you already have a plan which you can alter accordingly. This is a brief overview of the business planning process. I imagine that a number of NHWs already do this in one form or another. Hopefully, you can see that having a plan allows you to better manage the activities of your NHW. Whilst we are certainly not running BHP, it still helps to have a plan.
“Once the activities are on the calendar, you can alert your volunteers and start to make up attendance lists. You can also advise your local police so that they can schedule their members for the events.”
Geoff Kloot Manningham NHW 4
Sentinel • July 2016
www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
URA MILDNHW KOORI CUBS PROGRAM The Koori Cubs have had a big second term for the year. First they had the trip to the Melbourne Zoo where our two latest members were sworn in and officially became pack members. It was a great trip and although they were very tired on the return trip the kids had a great time. The term then became all about respect. First there was a visit to the Red Cliffs Military Museum where they were given a tour and a presentation by a returned serviceman. The tour was of great interest to everyone who attended and the Cubs learned a lot about respecting others. Finally it was time to put what they had learned into practise with the Cubs taking part in Anzac Day services throughout the district. They all did a fantastic job and should be congratulated on their efforts.
I’M ON A MISSION TO SAVE LIVES. RECOGNITION OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE On May 30 there were five volunteers from Area 4 in Mildura recognised for their outstanding service to NHW for over 25 years. Frank Pendock, Noreen Armsden, Joan Hayes, Marie Thomas and Shirley Turlan were all presented with service certificates by the Divisional Coordinator, Helen Worcester, at the Area’s latest meeting, whilst Noreen was also made a life member of Neighbourhood Watch.
Red25 is uniting with organisations like yours to achieve 25% of Australia’s blood donations.
Call 1300 886 524 for more information.
Congratulations and thank you to all. Joe Clarke Mildura NHW www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
July 2016 • Sentinel
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FEATURE
NHW at the volunteers dinner.
CITY OF BANYULE VOLUNTEER AWARDS Neighbourhood Watch was well represented at Volunteer Week celebrations in Banyule in May.
E
ach year the Banyule Council invites nominations for a number of awards in categories which include, Individuals, Multicultural, Community Groups, Good Neighbour and Citizen of the Year.
The Grimshaw NHW Group was nominated for its continued work which includes their monthly newsletter distributed to more than 3,000 dwellings, annual safety audits, car park audits, crime prevention displays at the Greensborough Shopping Centre and graffiti removal. They were one of nine groups nominated and while they did not receive the highest award, their great work was acknowledged.
and from treatments and also as a bus driver for Southern Cross Care. He has remained an executive member of Banyule PSA. He volunteers on average 20 hours a week to the above and other causes and is known for his friendly nature and desire to make Banyule a better place to live. His long career in the police service has considerably contributed to his ongoing desire to assist those who are less fortunate in our community. He has empathy, is caring and passionate about his voluntary work. He received a Highly Commended Award.
Twenty-nine residents were nominated for individual awards. Former Neighbourhood Watch Police Coordinator Pete Henry was nominated by Neighbourhood Watch for his many volunteer activities. These included both Grimshaw and Banyule Neighbourhood Watch groups for many years and as a committee member of the International Police Association Victoria Inc. for over 40 years and as treasurer for the past 23 years. He is a Freemason of many years and continues to work on fundraising for various charities including the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. Since retiring as the Neighbourhood Watch Police Coordinator in Banyule seven years ago, Pete has also become a volunteer driver for Austin Health taking cancer patients to 6
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Neighbourhood Watch in the park.
www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
Barbecue girls.
GRIMSHAW NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH Grimshaw NHW Area was nominated as a Community Group also at the Banyule Volunteer Awards night. Pete Henry receiving his award from Banyule Mayor Councillor Craig Langdon. Right: The Henry brothers.
PETE HENRY The Banyule Mayor, Councillor Craig Langdon, in presenting Pete with a certificate, heard that “Pete carries out a vast range of support from transporting hospital patients, supporting the welfare and friendship of others, to promoting the safety of households and the community”. His brother Bernard, also a very committed Freemason and a former Neighbourhood Watch volunteer in a now closed area, was also nominated. Bernard has been involved with the Masonic Board of Benevolence and the Masonic Task Force on many projects including BlazeAid and the Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. He was nominated by the Diamond Valley Food Share for his work over the past 11 years on their committee of management. The City of Banyule hosts a dinner for volunteers at The Centre Ivanhoe. This beautiful building is better known as the Heidelberg Town Hall. A total of 18 awards were presented by the Mayor Councillor Craig Langdon assisted by various Ward Councillors. This was a great event to show that volunteers are greatly appreciated by the City of Banyule.
“The activity of the group has had a noticeable impact in improving the atmosphere of the Bundoora, Greensborough and Watsonia area. Residents frequently approach volunteers while they are working and thank them for their efforts to improve our neighbourhood.” This group has over 100 registered volunteers who have been involved in a large number of projects, including safety audits, car park audits, operation safe plate days, and crime prevention days. They also compile and deliver over 3,000 newsletters each month. Other work included the ongoing campaign against graffiti involving removing graffiti from fire hydrants, power poles, steel safety railing, VicRoads’ control boxes and similar items. Large working bees are held, usually monthly, with smaller work carried out more often.
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH IN THE PARK As part of an Eaglemont NHW renewal, it was decided to have a Meet the Neighbours in the Park event. This was organised by our minute Secretary Rob Underwood, the Area Manager of Ivanhoe East. Held between 2pm and 4pm one Sunday afternoon, a number of residents came and went over the time. A number of the Banyule NHW committee also attended.
BARBECUE AT BUNNINGS This year’s barbecue was once again highly successful. Lyn Rawson did a wonderful job coordinating not only all the volunteers for the day but also did the ordering and arranging for the collection of the large quantities of bread, meat, groceries, soft drinks and ice required. As sales required from 8am till 4pm plus clean up afterwards, it makes for a long day. These events are a great team building exercise quite apart from the financial rewards which on this occasion achieved over $1000. Barbecue team.
www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
John Dowdle NHW Banyule Chair July 2016 • Sentinel
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FEATURE
: S Y A S KC YOU ARE NEVER TOO YOUNG TO LEARN ABOUT
SAFETY!
The Casey NHW mascot is KC the Neighbourhood Watch Dog, and she travels the length and breadth of the municipality visiting kindergartens, teaching young children about safety.
D
eveloped as a great way to get the message across to really young children, KC (actually Debbie Medley, Secretary of Casey NHW) and her friend (Maureen Fowler, our Minutes Secretary) read and act out a simple story for the children.
One day, KC was visiting the park with her family. She was having a great time! Birds to chase and sunshine to enjoy! But KC wandered away to have a look at a little duckling by the lake. She was so entranced that she did not notice when the family called her to come to go home! When she realised they had gone without her, she was a bit worried, after all she was supposed to be KC the Neighbourhood Watch Dog and now she was all alone! Then she saw a policeman walking towards her! She was so happy! Of course she knew all about the police, after all 8
Sentinel • July 2016
she was KC the Neighbourhood Watch Dog! She knew the policeman would help her find her family! We won’t spoil the story for you by telling it all here, but of course it does have a happy ending and the children learn that the police are their friends and are there to help. In the multicultural society such as we have today, this is an important lesson for children, many of whom may have come from places where the police were perhaps not to be trusted. Each child is left with a booklet that tells the story again and that they can keep and take home. This simple program has met with resounding success, and kids really love KC as can be seen from the photos. Rob Ward Casey NHW www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
BARWON HEADS GOES AHEAD
A
cold Tuesday evening, May 30, saw a company of 20 concerned residents gather in the Barwon Heads Community Centre to launch their local Neighbourhood Watch. Born out of concern for what was happening in their once sequestered, relaxed seaside community. The product of repatriated local resident Andrew Barlow, the meeting was addressed by Senior Sergeant Shane Madigan, officer commanding Bellarine, who reinforced the idea that relative isolation is no longer a justification for a she’ll be right attitude to security. Out-of-area gangs are making the trip for an overnight spree of theft of and from motor vehicles and commercial burglaries.
Geelong Community Liaison Officer, Senior Constable Andrew King, noted that the community needed to be target hardened and that Neighbourhood Watch was an excellent means to aid in such a process with the variety of resources that it can marshal. Communication and vigilance are key community responses to aid police in providing a safer and more secure community. Andrew Barlow spoke of his passion for seeing current trends turned around and the message that Barwon Heads was not a crook-friendly place resounded loud and clear. The meeting concluded with Andrew making an appeal for like-minded residents to get behind the new NHW group to make it a real force for the benefit of the community. Discussion with Shane and Andrew continued for some time after the meeting concluded, evincing the depth of residents’ concerns. Graham Higgerson NHW Greater Geelong & Surf Coast Secretary www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
July 2016 • Sentinel
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FEATURE
Dawn Vernon NHWGD, Tony Langdon Superintendent.
Nina, Lin, Laura, Lawrence and Dawn handing out newsletters at the Autumn Fest.
Dawn and Reg handing out Newsletters at the Sports Fest.
GREATER DANDENONG
O
n March 16 all residents were invited to attend a public information/forum night. Senior Sergeant Wear was our guest speaker filling in for Inspector Bruce Kitchen. I am a member of South East Business Network. During our meeting on April 14 I got to meet so many business women from our great city and also got the chance to give out more information about GDNHW, eg newsletters. Greater Dandenong Council runs many events though out the year: Autumn Fest – April 3: NHW volunteers Nina, Lin Laura, Lawrence and myself attended. Sport Fest – April 10: Reg, my husband, and myself attended.
Reg Vernon, Acting Superintendent Zorka Dunstan, Kelsey Sully (Victoria Police), Dawn Vernon (NHWGD President), Ray Summers (NHW Whitehorse).
Geoff Kloot (NHW Chairman), Inspector Jan Demarte and Dawn Vernon.
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The weather was just perfect, it is so encouraging to see so many people (many hundreds in fact) from many cultures all mixing together, all getting on so well. Greater Dandenong has over 165 different nationalities. Deputy Lord Mayor Susan Riley, I really wish the media would Reg Vernon and Dawn Vernon. report this. We use these days to distribute newsletters and we got many more email addresses (78 in total) for our database; we now have nearly 2,000 email addresses on our database. This way we are getting our messages out, such as police information, upcoming events, etc. So many people said that they did not think we still had NHW in our area, so we explained about the PSA and the changes of NHW. Two residents talked to us about the concerns they had in their street which we passed onto the Police to investigate. We are ever so grateful to Ian Brown (0415 323 663), Dandenong business man and Car Radiators & Air Conditioning for storing our trailer. The NHW State Business Plan Workshop was held on April 6 and was an informative day. Thank you for the invitation. Dawn Vernon NHW Greater Dandenong Chair
Chief Commissioner Graham Aston, NHW President Michael Strong, Dawn Vernon and 3AW Man About Town David Mann.
www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
DEDERANG AND DISTRICT BRANCH
T H G I N E I V O M Y L I M FA T
he Dederang and District Branch were successful in obtaining a grant from the Alpine Shire Community Grants Program. With these funds we held an open air movie night, screening Oddball. It was a wonderful evening with approximately 180 people in attendance. We started the evening with games for the children and parents; a jumping castle, face painter and balloon artist were also available to entertain everyone.
Helen Parfett from Wangaratta kindly brought the NHW trailer along, so we had lots of information available for the community about Neighbourhood Watch. This event allowed us to engage with our community and provide a platform for information sharing and education on the importance of Neighbourhood Watch and the ability to assist in providing a safer community. Our local police officer, Craig Lee, who is always a great support to our committee, attended the evening, and was able to obtain Local Member for Benambra Bill Tilley to provide an opening address for the event. This event would not have been possible without the support of our NHW members as well as local community groups such as the Dederang Recreational Reserve – providing the venue, The Dederang Race Club – providing backpacks filled with goodies that we were able to use as participation gifts for all the children who attended, the Dederang CFA for the use of the firetruck and the Dederang Primary School for providing all the catering on the evening. We thank all our volunteers and recommend that all NHW groups apply for local grants as it is great way to bring together your community. Rebecca Stow NHW Dederang and District Branch Chair
www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
July 2016 • Sentinel
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FEATURE
COBRAM NHW
Cobram NHW members Kath Renfrew, Jean Phillips, Neville Belcher, Ron Renfrew (Coordinator) and Mayor Moira Shire Gary Cleveland.
Neighbourhood Watch Cobram recently presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the Moira Shire at a meeting in Numurkah to thank them for all of their efforts over the years.
A
t the April meeting of Neighbourhood Watch Cobram it was brought up that a resting station (a seat) was needed at the Cobram Manse Road crossover on the levee bank. I sent in a request to the Shire on March 8 and 18 days later a seat was put there. Thank you to the Shire for such a quick response.
I am sure a lot of walkers will make good use of it. Anyone coming up to Cobram there is a good walking track along the levee bank. Ron Renfrew Neighbourhood Watch Cobram, R3 D4 Moira
CERTIFICATE OF APPR ECIATION TO MOIRA SHIRE Mayor Ga ry Clevela nd Council lors and Staff of Moira Shir e, Neighbourhood Watch MR A1-2 sta rted in Co bra m on Ju ly 23, 1987 with the back ing of Moira Shire with their suppor t in ere cting all the Neighbour hood Watch street sig ns and donating $200 per yea r to help with newslet ter costs, and giv ing us a room to meet in. Du ring the past 29 yea rs, any requests for som ething that needed doing aro und the tow n were fix ed up promptly. I have only been in Cobra m eight yea rs and some of the thing s that Moira Shire ha s helped Neighbourhood Watch with are a grant to pu rchase an information tra iler and Lock It or Lose It ca rds to ha nd out to residents to try and reduce the inc idence of theft from ca rs and ca r theft. The Shire also erected the Lock It or Lose It sig ns around the tow n, an d just recently we asked for a seat (rest station) to be put on the levee ba nk near Ma nse Road crossover, th is was done within three week s. Over the yea rs there must be a lot of other things Moira Shire has helped NH W with. It now gives me gr eat pleasu re to prese nt the Moira Shire Mayor, Co uncil lors and Sta ff wi th this Certificate of Apprecia tion. Ron Renf rew Coord inator, Neighbour hood Watch Cobra m
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www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
R E T A E GR N O T R A P SHEP NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
N
HW Greater Shepparton Police Service Area continues to quietly go about business and be a community safety presence for their community.
The group functions well with a focus on service delivery and short efficient bi-monthly meetings.
With an active membership of around 20, I admire what they can deliver. The group works closely with the smaller Shepparton NHW group, with several members on both group committees. Projects include: • Each year they deliver five Operation Safe Plate days across the PSA: Shepparton North, South, East, Mooroopna, and Tatura. Last year they secured the plates on over 400 vehicles, while spreading the message of “Remove It or Lose It”. • Completed two NHW sign restoration and extension projects with the support of NHWA grants. Visual confirmation for the community that their NHW is alive and well. • Delivered a “Meet Your Street” project, community Safety events engaging with local communities with a barbecue, bouncing castle and music. • Shouldered the workload to support local police with Operation Star, delivering messages to residences that surround schools left vacant over holiday periods, requesting that they monitor activity in their area. • Supported local police by delivering community safety messages to targeted crime hot spots. The group always welcomes new community members and while future growth will be important to sustainability, for now the group continues to deliver. Congratulations to them all. Glenn Gibson Leading Senior Constable, Crime Prevention Officer, Greater Shepparton PSA www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
July 2016 • Sentinel
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FEATURE
VALE BRUCE WILSON OAM Last month, the community of the City of Greater Shepparton mourned the death of Bruce Wilson OAM, a great community minded man and a staunch Neighbourhood Watch supporter for thirty years.
B
ruce was one of the initial instigators in establishing Neighbourhood Watch in the city of Shepparton in 1983. He served at all levels of the organisation, including State President, in 1999 and 2000.
He was the Area Coordinator of SHP1, Shepparton, and their newsletter editor, for 18 years. He served as Coordinator of O District and became the Coordinator of Region 3, Division 4 in 1990. Robin Sharp, Police NHW Coordinator for 26 years, recalls Bruce was the district Delegate for State Forum meetings when he came to office in 1988, and continued in that role when the regions came into being. That meant monthly trips to Melbourne for meetings and later, these became bi-monthly meetings. Robin Sharp and Bruce became great friends as they travelled together on Neighbourhood Watch business.
in all the towns of Region 3, Division 4, to explain the changes. In Shepparton he chaired the public meeting to explain the process and continued his involvement until 2013. Bruce was a Councillor for the City of Shepparton from 1970-1981 and from 1997-2008 and was Mayor in 1975 and again in 1997. While serving on the council he instigated the formation of a Community Safety Committee and was the inaugural chairperson. He formed links with this committee and Neighbourhood Watch which has been invaluable, and the Council Community Safety Officer is a member of our Neighbourhood Watch Committee today.
Bruce worked tirelessly in the region, introducing interregion meetings between Shepparton and Bendigo.
Bruce received awards at all levels in Neighbourhood Watch, including a State Award of Honour.
When the Police Service Areas were changed in 2010 and Neighbourhood Watch adopted its current format, Bruce and Robin spent a lot of time visiting the neighbourhood areas
Bruce’s wife, Elaine, passed away in 2013. He is survived by his daughter Jenny, and son Neil, and grandchildren Brodie, Jordan, Adam and Angelina.
VALE DONALD FORBES Sadly, Donald Forbes passed away on Saturday, March 26, 2016.
D
onald was known to many in the Neighbourhood Watch Whitehorse community. He was one of the original supporters and an Area Manager from 1988 of Area 44 in the Mt Pleasant Road, Nunawading, an Area which had joint meetings with Area 3/4 (Forest Hill/Vermont) on several occasions. Donald was also the Treasurer of what was then known as the Nunawading Sector and when his Area closed down five years ago he joined Area 3/4 and became their Treasurer. He was an enthusiastic participant at Whitehorse Area Manager meetings and a regular volunteer at Safe Plate Days in Whitehorse. Perhaps his most abiding interest was Lodge where he was a member of four (Combermere Lodge,
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Sentinel • July 2016
Combermere Chapter, Blackbu r n Lodge and Vermont Lodge) and was Treasurer of Combermere Lodge. Donald came from Scotland quite some years ago and served in the Australian Regular Army, including service in Malaysia. He was jovial, witty, ready with an anecdote and a real gentleman to all. He leaves behind a sister, two nieces and a brother who lives in Vietnam. Thank you to Neville Moulden for the details.
www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
VALE ALLAN EDWARD OWENS November 16, 1950 - March 21, 2016
T
he Neighbourhood Watch community in Melbourne’s north west were saddened to learn of the passing of a tireless and very capable worker for Neighbourhood Watch in Allan Owens. His good friend and NHW colleague, Ian Hiscock of Moonee Valley, has submitted the following tribute: Allan attended Westbreen Primary School and later received technical school education (Glenroy Tech) then attended Kingsley College (1977). I knew Allan for 20 years. My first memories of him were at North Suburban Club as Secretary of the old District Neighbourhood Watch and at Broadmeadows Police Station when Neighbourhood Watch meetings were held there. When Divisions were formed he was elected Secretary and served well for some time. Lately, Allan was Secretary for Hume/Moreland Local Government Area and held this position in the Police Service Area of Moreland until his death. Allan was earlier employed by Ericssons in Broadmeadows then as a carer with Benetas Aged Care facility. He earlier cared for his elderly mother at home and was connected with the Uniting Church. We had many social outings. He was collected and attended my birthday celebrations on New Year’s Eve. He was interested in community affairs and regularly attended many civic functions. His active work for Neighbourhood Watch included
planning and implementing Neighbourhood Watch e x p a n s ion across Melbourne’s north west. For many years Allan has contributed to the welfare of others and was a Neighbourhood Watch stalwart. He assisted with the production of my newsletter for 14 years and is well known to older volunteers in Moonee Valley. Allan was buried on April 8, 2016, after a service at the Ken Road Uniting Church in Pascoe Vale. The Service was well attended and volunteers from Hume/ Moreland were present including chair Ken Mathews. My family attended this service on behalf of Moonee Valley Neighbourhood Watch. Allan is survived by two brothers, John and William, and sister Valda. He is sadly missed. I would recommend Allan for a posthumous Neighbourhood Watch award if possible. Ian Hiscock Edited/submitted: Diane E Plim, State Forum delegate Moonee Valley Neighbourhood Watch
DONATE BLOOD AND YOU’LL SAVE THREE LIVES. AND GET THE BEST BISCUIT EVER. When you give blood, you save three lives. No wonder the biscuit you eat afterwards is so satisfying. To donate, call 13 14 95 or visit donateblood.com.au because giving blood feels good.
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July 2016 • Sentinel
15
FEATURE
BIGGEST MORNING TEA 2016 MON 041/42 held their Biggest Morning Tea on Friday, May 27, 2016.
The last Friday of May dawned noticeably fresh as the local NHW team, led by Area Manager Judith Clancy, set to.
T
ables at the Valley Reserve Scout Hall were draped in crisp linen and then topped with platters of sweet and savoury treats amidst sprigs of autumn-tinged Japanese maple. Chairs were arranged in companionable clusters. Filled with fresh water, the urn puffed its readiness for bags of tea and spoonsful of coffee powder. Soon after 10am, they came in, two by two mostly, friends, family and neighbours from the streets nearby.
Bearing an envelope of donations from the Mt Waverley Police Station was Acting Sergeant Doug Symons. Also on hand for a chinwag with locals over a biscuit and a cuppa, was State MP for Waverley, Michael Gidley.
First to arrive were Norma and Colin Styring of Vermont South, warmly welcomed by Area Manager Judith Clancy.
Michael listened to locals discuss their concerns and regaled with tales of the antics of his kindergartener.
Morning Tea poster and balloons. She too found the spread to her satisfaction.
They also came from further afield – some serendipitously, others intent upon supporting a good Australian cause.
Also keen to contribute to the battle against cancer was Buxton’s Tracey Saville. The NHW team were delighted to meet the representative from Buxton Mt Waverley. Buxton provides the paper on which this Area’s newsletter is printed.
“I heard the treats were all made by some very talented and traditional home cooks. I was not disappointed,” said Anne Choy, who swung by for tea after dropping her children off at a Mt Waverley school. She added that it was a great way to “contribute to an important Australian cause”. Gloria, a writer of books “found on shelves of the Mt Waverley Library”, was driving past when she spotted the Biggest 16
Sentinel • July 2016
Also hailing from afar was Mary Clancy of Ormond, who had an appointment in Mt Waverley, and so scheduled a look-in for the famously-good homemade treats on offer. Mary was pleased to spot an old school friend, as well as family, amongst the guests. Indeed the morning saw www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
Judith and MP Michael Gidley listen as Sergeant Symons makes a point.
Tracey Saville makes her contribution.
Colin addresses Michael.
Box Hill Mum Anne Choy was lured by the promise of great homemade cake and the desire to contribute to “an important cause”.
Tracey chats with Gloria and Mary.
Familiar and new faces.
many old friends connecting, even as new friendships were struck up.
their donation, but also for the time and effort they gave so unstintingly to make their camaraderie felt.
Certainly, it was good to stop and have an unhurried chinwag with the neighbours. People who were merely familiar faces one passed on local streets now have a name. Introductions were quickly followed by animated discussions of the latest developments in the locale and suggestions for dealing with them, where necessary.
We were especially touched by the donation of local police officers who sent their contributions with Sergeant Symons despite not being able to attend. Thank you, Anne Mavridis, for once again taking the lead in this event.
MON 041/042 raised a creditable $177 for the Cancer Council.
Last but not least, our warm and heartfelt gratitude to the Mt Waverley Scouts for their unfailing generosity in allowing us the use of the hall for free annually. Thank you!
Our thanks to everyone for their generosity – not just for
Judith Clancy
www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
July 2016 • Sentinel
17
FEATURE
BAYSIDE ROTUNDA
“LIGHTS UP”
T
he April meeting of Bayside NHW was visited by the local Mayor James Long. In answer to calls for better lighting of the coastal area in Sandringham, Mayor Long agreed to investigate.
As part of the response Mayor Long, a delegation from Bayside Neighbourhood Watch BSD12, led by Sally-Ann Tilley and joined by Sandringham Yacht Club CEO Richard Hewitt, walked the cliff top walk from the rotunda to the Sandringham Yacht Club (SYC).
iconic rotunda. The lights had been restored and upgraded as a bi-centennial project but had only been lit for events. Sandringham now has a well-lit cliff area in the immediate vicinity of the park and rotunda – and an eye-catching icon by both day and night. It was agreed that SYC would move forward with a new pedestrian gate – a safety gate, with CCTV 24/7 and with an intercom to the duty officer, available 16 hours a day in winter – longer in summer.
Neighbourhood Watch is leading a move to have prominent signage along the cliff top path to ensure walkers know where safety can be found.
We await with interest for further developments on lighting and fencing along this well used public pathway.
The high point of the Council’s response to the cliff top walk was to agree to turn on the display lights on Sandringham’s
Ellen McCartney NHW Sandringham Chair
18
Sentinel • July 2016
www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
NHW BSD12 MAKING A DIFFERENCE
P
arking issues, bus re-routing and traffic congestion around the Sandringham Village Hub and shopping centre has been the topic for ongoing discussions between NHW BSD12 and Murray Thompson MLA, Member for Sandringham and Bayside City Council.
On May 5, Mr Thompson initiated a meeting between the Shadow Minister for Public Transport David Hodgett MP, NHW Coordinator Sally-Ann Tilley and himself. They met at Sandringham Station and did a walk around looking at www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
the issues, including ever-increasing commuter cars parking at the end of the line causing problems for small business retailers, shoppers and tourists alike. One of the topics discussed was the re-routing of the local buses down quiet residential streets from the current commercial streets. With the support of the local residents action group, an agreement has been reached and subject to future approval by Public Transport Victoria, it appears buses will revert to the existing route. July 2016 • Sentinel
19
FEATURE
OPENING OF THE FOREST HILL POLICE STATION On Wednesday, April 6, Vince Joyce and Chris Summers from Neighbourhood Watch Whitehorse were invited to the official opening of the new $12m Forest Hill Police Complex.
W
e were warmly welcomed by various police officers as we entered the building and made our way to the conference/meeting room upstairs. The complex is extremely light and airy with central courtyards, planted out with lavenders and other ‘tough’ plants.
After a welcome by Aunty Zeta Thomson, Deputy Chairperson Eastern Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee, Mr Michael Sukkar, Federal Member for Deakin, presented the Australian flag to Senior Sergeant Michael Jones followed by Mr Neil Angus, State Member for Forest Hill, who presented the Victorian flag to Michael Jones. Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul O’Halloran gave a brief history on policing in Whitehorse, which was most interesting – when we had acres of apple orchards, and both at Mitcham and Blackburn police stations. The complex was then officially opened by the Acting Minister for Police, Mr Robin Scott. The Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton and Mr Scott unveiled the plaque and the Police Chaplain, Reverend Chris Siriweera blessed the complex, ending the formal part of the opening. All guests proceeded to a reception area for light refreshments where we were able to talk to senior police including Graham Ashton. Vince and I then enjoyed a personalised tour of the complex with Superintendent Diane Wilson. The tour was most interesting seeing where criminals are brought into the station at the rear, showered if they have been pepper sprayed and then into a cell, accessible from the rear area. We went into interview rooms, a large control room where if there was a major event happening (fire/flood), operations would be controlled from this room. We also visited sleep-over rooms, change rooms, the area where officers are kitted up before going out on patrol and where they would ‘unload their weapons on return’, – surrounded by bullet proof walls. Vince and I would like to thank the officers at Forest Hill for their very warm welcome. Chris Summers LGA Whitehorse 20
Sentinel • July 2016
www.nhw.com.au
FEATURE
OPERATION SAFE PLATE DAY WITH A DIFFERENCE NHW Whitehorse had the first Operation Safe Plate Day for 2016 on April 16, at Bunnings, Box Hill. What a Safe Plate Day it was!
W
e had 25 volunteers across three shifts for the day, along with five to six Victoria Police members onsite for the entire opening hours (10am-3pm) from Highway Patrol and ED1 Tasked Operations Team.
Thank goodness we had officers from the Highway Patrol – we had traffic chaos and instead of them doing number plate screws, they were used for traffic control. We had so many cars banked up trying to enter the Bunnings car park we were embarrassed. Cars were out of the car park, along Clarice Road and onto Middleborough Road as far back as the nearby Repco store. What a problem to have. Fantastic day. • We re-screwed 600 number plates on 300 cars • We had two grumpy customers • Lunch was a Bunnings sausage – if you were lucky – at 2pm • Someone asked a police officer if he had been into Bunnings, “have not been off my knees all day”, was his reply • We signed up over 100 people for E-News – that is great • We had 12 parking bays to operate in and these were always full and a queue staffed by Victoria Police waiting patiently for their turn. When we had packed up three went into Bunnings for a coffee. Staff asked us what happened out the front, “there were police cars everywhere”. Nothing happened, just NHW at work. A HUGE thank you to all 25 volunteers, to those who apologised – you missed a great day and to VicPol for their great support. This was Victoria Police and NHW working together for sure. Our thanks to our supporters: • Bunnings for site and equipment • Woodards Real Estate Blackburn for signage Chris Summers LGA Whitehorse www.facebook.com/NHW.Vic
July 2016 • Sentinel
21
FEATURE
DEAKIN COMMUNITY AWARDS
D
eakin has countless unsung heroes who work tirelessly to strengthen our community. The Deakin Community Awards seek to celebrate these volunteers who give their time, skills and energy to community organisations, helping to make our local area a better place to live.
The awards provide an opportunity to nominate an individual or community group that deserve recognition and our thanks for their significant contributions.
Congratulations NHW Whitehorse volunteers NHW Whitehorse was nominated as a community group for the 2016 Deakin Community Awards – celebrating service to the community. NHW received their Deakin Community Award at a very impressive ceremony on the evening of Thursday, June 9, 2016 at Yarra Valley Grammar, George Wood Performing Arts Centre in Ringwood. The awards were presented by Mr Michael Sukkar, Federal MP for Deakin and our award was received by Ray Summers (Chairman), Neville Moulden (Area Manager 03 and 04) and Graeme Elder (Whitehorse Executive). Congratulations to all Whitehorse volunteers. Chris Summers LGA Whitehorse 22
Sentinel • July 2016
www.nhw.com.au
POLICE LIAISON OFFICERS LIST REGION
NAME
PHONE
PSA
EASTERN (RE) RED1
LSC Linda Kane
8851 1179
linda.kane@police.vic.gov.au
Boroondara Manningham
LSC Burnard Postma LSC Rebecca Millin
8892 3381
burnard.postma@police.vic.gov.au
Monash
rebecca.millin@police.vic.gov.au
Whitehorse
RED2
Knox LSC Audrey Jones
9871 3000
audrey.x.jones@police.vic.gov.au
Maroondah
LSC Linda Hancock
9739 2386
linda.hancock@police.vic.gov.au
Yarra Ranges
RED3
Benalla, Mansfield, Murrindindi LSC Wendy Willingham
5735 0236
wendy.willingham@police.vic.gov.au
Mitchell, Strathbogie
LSC Glenn Gibson
5820 5830
glenn.gibson@police.vic.gov.au
Shepparton
RED4
LSC Helen Parfett
5723 0888
helen.parfett@police.vic.gov.au
Wangaratta, Wodonga
RED5
LSC Brett Godden
5131 5085
brett.godden@police.vic.gov.au
Bass Coast, Baw Baw, Latrobe
RED6
LSC Sharon Blegg
5150 2624
sharon.blegg@police.vic.gov.au
East Gippsland
LSC Kim Kell
5142 2200
kim.kell@police.vic.gov.au
Wellington
NORTH WEST METRO (RN) RND1
LSC Glenn McFarlane
9637 1100
glenn.mcfarlane@police.vic.gov.au
Melbourne, Yarra
RND2
LSC Amma Bridgeman
9742 9497
amma.bridgeman@police.vic.gov.au
Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Wyndham
RND3
LSC Matthew Mudie
9361 4711
matthew.mudie@police.vic.gov.au
Brimbank, Melton
RND4
Moonee Valley, Moreland
RND4
Hume
RND5
LSC Nicholas Wheeler
9479 6111
nicholas.wheeler@police.vic.gov.au
Banyule, Darebin, Nillumbik
LSC Sandra O’Connor
9409 8146
sandra.oconnor@police.vic.gov.au
Whittlesea
SOUTHERN METRO (RS) RSD1
LSC Mark James
9520 5252
mark.r.james@police.vic.gov.au
Port Phillip, Stonnington
RSD2
LSC Gary Oram
9556 6577
gary.oram@police.vic.gov.au
Glen Eira, Bayside, Kingston
RSD3
LSC Melissa Blair
9767 7671
melissa.blair@police.vic.gov.au
Cardinia, Casey, Dandenong
RSD4
LSC Sharron Coburn
9784 5639
sharron.coburn@police.vic.gov.au
Frankston, Mornington Peninsula
WESTERN (RW) RWD1
LSC Andrew King
5225 3261
andrew.king@police.vic.gov.au
Geelong, Surf Coast
RWD2
S/C Nicholas Smart
5560 1193
nicholas.smart@police.vic.gov.au
Southern Grampians, Warrnambool
RWD3
S/C Janine Walker
5335 9503
janine.walker@police.vic.gov.au
Ballarat, Moorabool
RWD4
LSC Les Power
5382 9231
les.power@police.vic.gov.au
Horsham, Northern Grampians
RWD5
Margaret Singe
5448 1311
proactivepoliceunit-central-vic-oic@ police.vic.gov.au
Bendigo, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Macedon Ranges
RWD6
LSC Joe Clarke
5018 5494
joseph.clarke@police.vic.gov.au
Mildura
LSC Andrew Downes
5036 4444
andrew.downes@police.vic.gov.au
Swan Hill
CRIME PREVENTION OFFICERS LIST
REGION
NAME
PHONE
PSA
EASTERN (RE) RED1
RED2
LSC Linda Kane
8851 1179
linda.kane@police.vic.gov.au
Boroondara
LSC Carla Reardon
8841 3999
carla.reardon@police.vic.gov.au
Manningham
LSC James Egan
9566 2112
james.egan@police.vic.gov.au
Monash
LSC Rebecca Millin
8892 3381
rebecca.millin@police.vic.gov.au
Whitehorse
LSC Auggie Nguyen
9881 7948
vp38558@police.vic.gov.au
Knox
9881 7927 LSC Linda Hancock RED3
Maroondah
9739 2386
linda.hancock@police.vic.gov.au
5762 1811
Yarra Ranges Benalla, Mansfield, Murrindindi
LSC Wendy Willingham
5735 0236
wendy.willingham@police.vic.gov.au
Mitchell, Strathbogie
LSC Glenn Gibson
5820 5830
glenn.gibson@police.vic.gov.au
Shepparton
LSC Helen Parfett
5723 0888
helen.parfett@police.vic.gov.au
Wangaratta
SC James Donovan
02 6049 2600
james.donovan@police.vic.gov.au
Wodonga
RED5
LSC David Halliday
5131 5084
david.halliday@police.vic.gov.au
Bass Coast, Baw Baw, Latrobe
RED6
LSC Sharon Blegg
5150 2624
sharon.blegg@police.vic.gov.au
East Gippsland
LSC Kim Kell
5142 2200
kim.kell@police.vic.gov.au
Wellington
LSC Janie Lambert
9637 1201
janie.lambert@police.vic.gov.au
Melbourne
RED4
NORTH WEST METRO (RN) RND1
LSC Glenn McFarlane
9637 1100
glenn.mcfarlane@police.vic.gov.au
Yarra
RND2
LSC Craig McDonald
8398 9842
craig.j.mcdonald@police.vic.gov.au
Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Wyndham
RND3
LSC Matthew Mudie
9313 3305
matthew.mudie@police.vic.gov.au
Brimbank, Melton
RND4
SC Jacqui Newman
9302 8295
jacqui.newman@police.vic.gov.au
Hume
SC Andrew Laird
9373 5256
andrew.laird@police.vic.gov.au
Moonee Valley
LSC Alicia Lippiatt
9355 6049
alicia.lippiatt@police.vic.gov.au
Moreland
LSC Nicholas Wheeler
9479 6111
nicholas.wheeler@police.vic.gov.au
Darebin
LSC Tina Robinson
9479 6111
tina.robinson@police.vic.gov.au
Darebin
LSC Robyn Murphy
9435 1044
robyn.murphy@police.vic.gov.au
Banyule, Nillumbik
LSC Sandra O’Connor
9409 8146
sandra.oconnor@police.vic.gov.au
Whittlesea
RSD1
LSC Mark James
9520 5252
mark.r.james@police.vic.gov.au
Port Phillip, Stonnington
RSD2
Sergeant Michael White
9556 6312
michael.white@police.vic.gov.au
Coordinator – Office of Proactive Policing
SC Dawn Eddington
9556 6529
dawn.eddington@police.vic.gov.au
Kingston (North)
LSC Lisa Dobbie
9556 6314
lisa.dobbie@police.vic.gov.au
Kingston (South)
LSC Gary Oram
9556 6174
gary.oram@police.vic.gov.au
Glen Eira (Bayside)
LSC Peter Stefaniw
9556 6313
peter.stefaniw@police.vic.gov.au
Glen Eira
LSC Brett Owen
9767 7671
brett.owen@police.vic.gov.au
Cardinia, Casey, Dandenong
LSC Paul Peebles
9767 1144
paul.peebles@police.vic.gov.au
Cardinia, Casey, Dandenong
LSC Richard Walter
9767 1144
richard.walter@police.vic.gov.au
Cardinia, Casey, Dandenong
LSC Sharron Coburn
9784 5639
sharron.coburn@police.vic.gov.au
Frankston
SC David Foster
5986 0444
david.j.foster@police.vic.gov.au
Mornington Peninsula
RWD1
LSC Adrian Goodwin
5225 3260
adrian.goodwin@police.vic.gov.au
Geelong, Surf Coast
RWD2
LSC Mal Agnew
5560 1192
malcolm.agnew@police.vic.gov.au
Southern Grampians, Warrnambool
RWD3
LSC Donna Parsons
5335 9503
donna.parsons@police.vic.gov.au
Ballarat, Moorabool
RWD4
LSC Linda McLennan
5382 9231
linda.mclennan@police.vic.gov.au
Horsham, Northern Grampians
RWD5
LSC Margaret Fitzpatrick
5448 1420
margaret.fitzpatrick@police.vic.gov.au
Bendigo, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Macedon Ranges
RWD6
LSC Mark Baumann
5018 5494
mark.baumann@police.vic.gov.au
Mildura
SC Tania Peters
5036 1655
tania.peters@police.vic.gov.au
Swan Hill
RND5
SOUTHERN METRO (RS)
RSD3
RSD4
WESTERN (RW)
TRANSIT – MELBOURNE CITY SC Jessica Rosewarne
9247 3282
jessica.rosewarne@police.vic.gov.au
Sergeant Mark Vonarx
9247 3268
mark.vonarx@police.vic.gov.au
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