Camera coup just the start

SOME relief at last for the long-suffering Drysdale traders, who will finally get CCTV cameras installed in their crime-hit town — albeit temporarily.

The City of Greater Geelong should be applauded for jumping in and funding the installation and six-month operation of CCTV cameras after previous appeals for government support went unheeded.

The City, police and community groups including Neighbourhood Watch were left disappointed and scratching their heads when the State Government knocked back seven different local CCTV funding applications last November.

Drysdale’s bid for the surveillance cameras came on the back of a series of crimes, including ram raids, in the town’s main shopping centre that left businesses devastated and traders fearing for their safety.

While stakeholders are still hopeful of Federal Government support to fund permanent surveillance technology, the council’s $3000 worth of support should provide some peace of mind over the coming months.

“It’ll make residents feel a lot safer and protect areas around us . . . the whole of the Bellarine is on edge with the lack of police and the crime going on now,” local Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator Leanne Stratford said.

However, given the increase in crime and subsequent fear spreading throughout the region, it is extraordinary that it has been left to the local council to address this issue.

Our towns deserve better — and a more permanent solution.