NEW security cameras in Warrnambool’s central business district have proven an asset for police only days after being switched on, with officers able to track down alleged offenders in two incidents.
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Nine high-tech devices mounted on poles are linked to monitors in the police station and are providing 24-hour coverage of the city’s busiest pedestrian areas and entertainment venues.
This will be the first peak tourism season where electronic surveillance is available to law enforcement officers during the annual Summerbool operation by police and city council local laws officers.
“We’ve used it to catch kids on a roof at Ozone car park and saw someone running after a street assault,” Senior Sergeant Russell Tharle said.
“It’s passive surveillance which enables us to record footage which is reviewed when offences are reported.”
The closed-circuit television system was installed about a month ago using $168,000 of state government funds and $25,000 from the city council. It is still being fine-tuned.
The system is capable of close-up zooms on number plates, faces and other features which could assist investigators.
Mayor Michael Neoh said it was not ‘Big Brother’ surveillance, but rather a tool to improve public safety and crime investigations.
“I think people have embraced it,” Cr Neoh said.
“Other cities including Ballarat, Geelong, Colac and Shepparton have CCTV cameras which have proven effective.”
City council health and local laws manager Ian Fitzgibbon said feedback showed the community approved of the new system.
He said Summerbool aimed to discourage anti-social behaviour around the CBD and foreshore.
“There will be a strong presence around popular areas with regular joint patrols by council and police officers,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.
“Past experience has shown that by being highly visible and nipping potential incidents in the bud, most negative outcomes can be avoided.”
Patrols will be carried out on foot, bicycle and in vehicles.
Council local laws co-ordinator Peter McArdle said having officers mingle with holidaymakers and keeping watch for safety and general behaviour had proven effective.
“Last summer when we were going through the parks, people appreciated us having a chat with them,” Mr McArdle said.
Wristband entry into the council’s two foreshore caravan parks will again be used on New Year’s Eve along with charging a small fee for short-term guests of campers.
“This was highly effective in curbing the number of people roaming the caravan parks on New Year’s Eve,” he said.
“Summer is a time of celebration, but we would like to remind everyone to take responsibility for themselves and not impact on the enjoyment of others.”
