The streets of Bargara
and the surrounding coastal communities just got safer following the allocation of an additional patrol vehicle, Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett announced today.
Mr Bennett said the additional vehicle was welcome and would improve patrols in the region, extending from Elliott Heads through to Burnett Heads.
“Our local police officers have always done a fantastic job protecting Bargara and the surrounding areas with the resources that have been available to them, and this additional vehicle will enable them to continue that outstanding work,” he said.
“The additional vehicle will mean greater police presence on our streets, safer communities and ultimately cut crime.
“Our police must be out there and seen to be actively patrolling the area… this extra patrol vehicle will ensure that happens.”
Mr Bennett said up until now, the Bargara Police Station had access to just one patrol vehicle.
“These officers cover a significant geographic area of responsibility and growing population base,” he said.
“Residents raised concerns with me that officers’ capacity to respond was limited by the lack of access to vehicles.
“I congratulate Wide Bay Police Superintendent Mark Stiles for working with the local community and reviewing the capacity of police resources to ensure the community’s needs are met.”
Burnett Heads Neighbourhood Watch coordinator Allan Parnell welcomed the announcement.
“We’ve advocated for some time to get extra staffing at Baraga Police Station… they remain hamstrung by having just one vehicle,” Mr Parnell said.
“This is a major step forward for having this valuable police resources to more productively engage in community policing.”
Cr Danny Rowleson, who has also played an active role in advocating for the additional vehicle, said the announcement was “most welcome”
“Development of our coastal areas has been growing rapidly in recent years placing increased demands on police services from the gara Police Station,” Cr Rowleson said.
“This additional vehicle will assist police with a much needed asset to provide a safer living environment for coastal residents whilstng into account the challenges that may occur from increased development of the port facilities at the Port of Bundaberg.”
ENDS.
ruary 19, 2016.