Residents meet to tackle crime surge
GROWING concerns surrounding the alarming crime rate across the Cairns region has prompted a group of residents to take action by hosting a community meeting.
Known locally as one of the notorious M suburbs of Cairns, Manunda has been one area frequently hit by car thieves and home invaders.
Extremely concerned about the escalating rate of car thefts and crime, Manunda Neighbourhood Watch group will host a meeting open to the Cairns community on April 23.
Manunda NHW area coordinator Amanda Allan said the meeting was a chance for residents to voice any concerns they had about their neighbourhood.
“It’s just an unfortunate fact that it’s up to us, up to the community, to just be more alert, more aware and be more safety conscious,” Ms Allan said.
“It’s a big change in our own attitude that needs to happen.
“I also want to educate people in the community to get involved, meet your neighbour and the people in your street because looking out for each other is a big part in staying safe.
“Everyone is entitled to their own peace and quiet and that’s what we’re trying to get back.”
Cairns regional councillor Max O’Halloran threw his support behind the community meeting, praising Ms Allan for her initiative and hands-on approach.
“It’s not just a problem in Manunda. It’s everywhere, it’s every suburb,” he said.
“I think everyone has the challenge throughout Cairns – we all need to be vigilant.
“It’s like a cult or something and if you don’t lock up they’ll pinch your car. One of the things we pride ourselves on living in Cairns is the relaxed lifestyle but this is starting to make people edgy.”
The Manunda Neighbourhood Watch community meeting will at Cairns Colonial Club Resort, 18-26 Cannon St, Manunda, from 6.30pm- 7.30pm this Monday.
Local council members, representatives of the Queensland Police Service and local business owners have also been invited to attend to have their say.
EVERYONE IS ENTITLED TO THEIR OWN PEACE AND QUIET AND THAT’S WHAT WE’RE TRYING TO GET BACK AMANDA ALLAN