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Latrobe Crime Watch News Letter Latrobe Police Service AreaComing Events, Hot Spots,Morwell Freeway Closure Update, April Neighbourhood Watch Safer Communities Reports. By Malcolm Lawrence - 19th April 2011 - Back to News Latrobe Crime Watch News
Latrobe Police Service Area
Neighbourhood Watch Creating Safer Communities
APRIL 2011
Emergency 000
Mobiles 112
State the service you want – Police, Ambulance or Fire.
Police:
Boolarra 5169 6222
Churchill 5122 1790
Moe 5127 2222
Morwell 5131 5000
Traralgon 5174 0900
Crime Stoppers
1800 333 000
Neighbourhood Watch & Safer Communities
Unit – Latrobe PSA
L/S/C Brett Godden 5131 5085 0400 050 749
brett.godden@police.vic.gov.au
Facebook: Senior Constable Brett
Child Protection 13 12 78
Consumer Affairs 5116 5701.
Dept Primary Industry 136186
Dispute Settlement Centre 1800 658 528
Latrobe City 1300 367 700
Nurse on Call 1300 606 024
Poisons Information 13 11 26
VicRoads 131170
COMING EVENTS: OPEN INVITATION TO ALL LATROBE VALLEY RESIDENTS
Wednesday 20th April 2011 – Churchill Town/CDCA Meeting - Churchill Pub Meeting Room - 7 pm Thursday 21st April 2011 - Yinnar Town Meeting - Yinnar Hotel – 7.30 pm
Monday 2nd May 2011 - Moe/Newborough Town Meeting - Moe RSL Albert Street, Moe – 7 pm Tuesday 3rd May 2011 - Traralgon Town Meeting - Civic Offices, Kay Street - 7.15 pm
Wednesday 4th May 2011 - Morwell Town Meeting-Milne Bay Room, Morwell RSL, Elgin St – 7 pm
Wednesday 11th May 2011 - Yallourn North Town Meeting – Yallourn North Bowling Club – 7.30 pm
Wednesday 15th June 2011 - NHW Police Showband & Pipe Band Concert – Kernot Hall Morwell
Latrobe Crime Watch News Electronic Delivery: To receive this newsletter electronically by email, simply email Leading Senior Constable Brett Godden at Latrobe’s Safer Community Unit at brett.godden@police.vic.gov.au requesting to be added to the electronic mail list.
HOT SPOTS – POLICE NEED THE PUBLIC’S HELP
Wilful and Obscene Exposure at Moe
Police are seek help identify a suspect wanted for a wilful and obscene exposure.
On 28th of March a male exposed himself in the Botanic Gardens at around 7.00 pm.
He is described as Caucasian, 165 cm (5’4")tall, aged in his 30’s, solid build and
curly light brown hair under a faded navy blue baseball cap, wearing a light blue or grey windcheater and a pair of "Jim Beam" brand red satin boxer shorts. At the time of the incident he was wearing a pair of prescription sunglasses.
Police believe the offence may be related to a similar incident in November.
Any information to Crimestoppers or Detective Senior Constable Hodson at Latrobe CIU on 5131 5046.
Police remind the community if they see something suspicious they should ring 000 or if they have information in relation to an offence contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppers.com.au. Phone numbers for all Latrobe Police Stations appear on this page.
Freeway Closure Update
Hi folks,
I am happy to report some positive updates since my last report. The mine at Hazelwood has increased the drilling activity and now has four drilling rigs working 24 hours a day drilling the horizontal drain holes at the base of the mine. They have completed 17 holes and partially completed another four. A further eight will be drilled in the original area as well as an additional 10 in the expanded area
I reported in last newsletter.
The Department of Primary Industries has appointed a contractor to design the solution for the Morwell Main Drain. The specifications are expected within the next few days. This will indicate the scope of work and therefore the time required to undertake the works needed in the Main Drain area. Dr Kevin Rosengren has also been engaged to undertake a Public Safety Review with regard to the Morwell Land Movement issue which will commence shortly.
We were somewhat concerned with the rain fall between the 9 – 12 April, with 53 mm falling across the area of concern. I am happy to report that the works undertaken to repair the Main Drain some time ago have assisted in getting the water away from that area and no discernable movement was seen in the most recent inspection of the original area. There was some slight movement at the bottom of the northern batter to the east of the area of concern and also some very minor cracking to the eastern area of the freeway. All in all, this is positive as the rain that fell was very similar to that which caused the initial larger movement. It seems evident that the drain holes have assisted, with over 90 per cent of the holes draining significant water from the area.
The Emergency Management Team continue to receive terrific support from the Government with the Minister for Mining and Resources, Michael O’Brien visiting on Tuesday and the Minister for Transport, Terry Mulder visiting on Thursday. The Deputy Premier Mr Peter Ryan also came to Morwell and met with me on Friday 15 April and again reiterated the Government’s commitment to doing whatever it takes to resolve the situation and get the freeway back open.
Easter is almost upon us and we expect a large influx of travellers and holiday makers to the region. Traffic levels will increase so please be patient and courteous to other drivers and pedestrians. I urge you to allow extra time, avoid changing lanes and make sure you leave a safe distance between yourself and the car in front of you.
For up to date information on the situation please visit www.police.vic.gov.au/content.asp?Document_ID=30040
Kind regards,
Geoff Newby
Superintendent
Incident Controller
APRIL NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH/SAFER COMMUNITIES GROUP REPORTS
MORWELL MEETING and CRIME REPORT
MARCH ISSUES - Traffic running red lights on the Jane St Bridge - Information passed to both the Highway patrol and the Strategic Advisory Group - Traffic. Brett gave an update and advice re the Princes Freeway closure.
Speed zone change from Morwell to Latrobe Hospital but no warning signage - To VicRoads via Strategic Advisory Group – Traffic.
CRIME REPORT -
WILFUL AND OBSCENE EXPOSURE – 1 March (0 Feb) One offender charged after an incident in Well St.
ROBBERY - 1 March (4 Feb) - One charged with robbery & associated offences after a bag snatch in the car park of the Top Pub.
ASSAULT - 12 March (19 Feb) - Ten offenders charged with various assault offences. Under a new Victoria Police reporting regime family violence incidents are still featuring highly in assaults reported. Two offenders charged after being intercepted by police and charged with reckless conduct, driving in a dangerous manner and assault offences.
ARSON - 1 March (2 Feb) – A stolen vehicle from Traralgon located burnt out in Fairway Dr, Morwell.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 32 March (36 Feb) - Criminal damages were spread fairly evenly across town. A high number occured in the Vary St, Beattie Cres, Keat Crt area. Eleven offenders charged with a number arising out of family violence incidents. Letterboxes were damaged in Churchill Rd, Jill St and Kathleen St overnight on the 6th/7th of March.
BURGLARY - 14 March (13 Feb) - Most of the burglaries were on residential premises. Once again offenders targeted the council tip breaking in and stealing a number of batteries from the premises. Powerworks was also targeted with confectionary stolen. One offender was charged after a burglary in Fairway Dr.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 8 March (2 Feb) - One offender charged with two counts of TFMV and a number of burglaries and assaults which occurred across the Latrobe area recently. The other thefts all occurred in residential driveways or outside residential addresses. Registration plates, coins, GPS units and wallets were stolen &a badge stolen from a vehicle in Bridle Rd. THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 4 March (2 Feb) - Only two of the vehicles have been located and returned to the owners. Two offenders charged with TOMV from Evans St and three co-offenders charged with offences in relation to being with these two when other crimes were committed, such as burglaries and other thefts.
THEFT - 12 March (17 Feb) - Two large rubbish bins were amongst the items stolen. The bins were stolen overnight on the 1st/2nd March from Helen and Winifred St. One offender charged with theft of fuel from a service station in Princes Dr and will be facing court shortly charged with burglaries/TFMV/assaults and other theft charges.
ISSUES RAISED APRIL – Freeway Closure – Update from Brett and general discussion. Brett will take all issues raised and suggestions for traffic diversions & street alterations to the Emergency Management Team and to the Strategic Advisory Group.
Untidy households and vacant premises – Gerrard explained the process with estate agents and DHS. Both very cooperative and results achieved. Just let them know the addresses.
Dangerous intersection Butters and Angus Street - To Latrobe City as is a council intersection.
Elderly Resident Crossing Signs needed on Maryvale Road near Heritage Manor – Write to VicRoads as is its road.
Power Lines to Residences Running Through Tree Foliage. Who’s responsible? – On private property the owner, on public land the power company. Any doubts ring SP Ausnet.
Removal of Graffiti - Significant graffiti was reported to Council on Feb 14 still there a month later. Nothing but praise from Brett as council and Morwell’s NHW graffiti team working very closely together in partnership. One team member has been away working interstate but has now returned. Will be removed quicker now team member is back.
YALLOURN NORTH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
MARCH ISSUES - Third St being used as a thoroughfare due to Princes Freeway closure - Passed to Latrobe Highway patrol and to Strategic Advisory Group – Traffic.
Suspect vehicle in Somerset Rd – Information given was that it was a police member observing motorcycle activity. Brett made enquires and no police operations in place. Next time the vehicle is seen obtain a registration number and pass it onto police.
CRIME REPORT -
ASSAULT - 1 March (1 Feb) - Police are investigating a reported assault at the Yallourn North Skate Park.
ARSON - 1 March (Nil Feb) – One criminal damage by fire as a result of a stolen vehicle being burnt out in DeCampo Dr.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 3 March (2 Feb) - Youths who threw lemons and other objects on roofs in High Rd are the suspects for a letterbox being damaged on the 16th March. The Yallourn North Town Oval cricket pitches were damaged when offenders poured oil over them and replaced the covers. The takeaway store in North Rd was targeted when offenders threw rocks through windows on the night of the 4th.
BURGLARY - Nil March (Nil Feb)
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - Nil March (1 Feb)
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil March (2 Feb)
THEFT (OTHER) - Nil March (3 Feb)
ISSUES RAISED APRIL – Brett on leave at time meeting held. Apology sent.
MOE MEETING and CRIME REPORT
MARCH ISSUES - NHW sign has still not been erected in High St, Moe - Brett to follow up with the depot.
CRIME REPORT -
WILFUL AND OBSCENE EXPOSURE - 2 March (0 Feb) There were two wilful and obscene exposures committed in the Moe. On the 28th a male exposed himself in the Botanic Gardens at around 7.00 pm. He is described as Caucasian, solid build and curly light brown hair under a blue baseball cap wearing a light blue or grey windcheater and red satin boxer shorts. Any information to Crimestoppers or Detective Senior Constable Hodson, Latrobe CIU on 5131 5046. The other exposure is being followed up by the Sexual Offences Squad.
ASSAULT - 17 March (14 Feb) On 26th March a male was stabbed outside the Elizabeth St Shops. He was approached by known offenders and stabbed requiring him to be taken to LRH. Any information in relation to this offence can be passed to Crimestoppers. Fourteen other offenders were charged with assault offences.
ARSON - 2 March (2 Feb) - The disused Scout Hall in Scott Ave was damaged by fire on the 13th March. The cause is still unknown and the Latrobe CIU is investigating. The other criminal damage by fire was a safety bollard set alight in Narracan Drive.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 17 March (17 Feb) - Seven damages were committed in the Newborough area with the primary school again targeted with windows smashed. Police ask the community to report suspicious activity around schools and kinders especially over the Easter holidays. Two offenders were charged with another four being followed up.
BURGLARY - 16 March (4 Feb) - Offenders targeted the Lake Narracan Caravan Park committing four burglaries on caravans between 15th Feb - 4th March. Items stolen include tools and camping equipment. Two offenders were charged with two counts of burglary in the Bennett St area. Another offender was charged with a burglary in Della Torre Rd.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 31 March (6 Feb) - Vehicle badges and number plates were the main items stolen. Between the 25th and 28th March there were six separate locations where vehicle badges were stolen. Two offenders were charged with eight counts each of TFMV. They also faced another charge with three other offenders for offences committed on the 8th March.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 7 March (Nil Feb) - Two vehicles still not recovered. Five offenders charged with TOMV from Fern Crt. They were also charged in relation to damages and thefts from vehicles. Police remind vehicle owners they must lock their vehicles even when in the driveway of their residences. One owner who had his vehicle stolen left the vehicle outside the address, unlocked and the keys in the ignition.
THEFT (OTHER) - 10 March (12 Feb) - Once again police remind the community to be aware of their property at all times. A number of wallets, iPods and purses were stolen from bags left whilst the owner went elsewhere in buildings or sports facilities. A group of two aboriginal males and three African males have been targeting liquor outlets during the month and shopkeepers are advised to heighten security in the liquor sections of their stores.
ISSUES RAISED APRIL MEETING –
NHW Sign has still not been erected in High St Moe - Brett to follow up with depot again.
Motorcycles at the rear of Orana Seniors Village - Details of dates and times are being collected and will be passed to Brett.
CHURCHILL and DISTRICT MEETING and CRIME REPORT
MARCH ISSUES - Youths causing trouble at shopping centre. To Churchill Police to step up patrols in the area.
CRIME REPORT –
ASSAULTS - 6 March (6 Feb) - In all incidents offenders have been charged. All except one took place in a public area with one incident involving the offender using a motor vehicle as the weapon of choice. This offender has been charged with assault and traffic offences.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 15 March (5 Feb) - Almost half occurred in residential areas. Windows of houses were randomly damaged by rocks or similar projectiles. One offender was charged after a family violence incident whilst two other offenders are being followed up by police.
BURGLARY - 6 March (8 Feb) - One offender was charged after a burglary on the Glendonald Pre-School Centre. The Maternal Health Car Centre attached to the preschool was also targeted although it appears that nothing was stolen. Police ask the community to keep an eye on places such as schools and kinders during the coming school holidays.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 2 March (2 Feb) - Fuel was stolen from a vehicle parked outside the victim’s residence whilst the window of another vehicle was removed in Rae Cres on the 19th. Nothing was stolen from this vehicle.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 1 March (Nil Feb) - The victim’s vehicle was stolen from near his residence. It was located stripped and burnt out the next day in the Jeeralang Junction area.
THEFT - 1 March (5 Feb) - Freedom fuels was once again a victim of a theft when a driver filled his vehicle and drove off without paying for the fuel. Police are working with service stations to increase their security and put an end to this style of theft.
ISSUES RAISED APRIL – Meeting not held at time of printing.
TRARALGON MEETING and CRIME REPORT
MARCH ISSUES - Freeway closure - Brett provided an update and advice re the Princes Freeway closure.
Traralgon railway station precinct toilets – the graffiti in the toilets are not only an eyesore but are extremely graphic. This has previously been passed to Latrobe City Council. Brett to follow up.
CRIME REPORT
ASSAULT - 16 March (15 Feb) - A large number occurred as victims were leaving or were inside entertainment venues with alcohol playing a part in each. A concern for police is the number of incidents involving multiple offenders versus one victim. One offender was charged after ramming a police car to avoid arrest whilst three other offenders were charged with assault offences.
PROPERTY DAMAGE 33 March (28 Feb) - Nearly all damages were committed in residential areas mostly involving vehicles in some manner. On 3rd March a number of vehicles parked in St Georges Rd had their tyres slashed and most of the other damages involved windows being smashed. One offender was charged with damage after a family violence incident.
BURGLARY 8 March (10 Feb) - Most burglaries were committed involved forced entry. One victim had her handbag stolen whilst she was working in her front garden after leaving the rear door unlocked. Police advise if you are in the front or back yard of your residence it is best to keep the opposite door locked.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 19 March (15 Feb) - Nearly all happened outside residential address or in driveways. Eight of the vehicles were unlocked. Whilst police understand that vehicle owners consider it a right to park their vehicle and leave it unlocked in their driveway, leaving items in view of thieves provides too much temptation for the unscrupulous in our community.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 3 March (0 Feb) - Two have been recovered. One was stolen from a public car park and recovered burnt out later in Morwell. The other vehicle was also located in Morwell after being stolen from a residential driveway. Two vehicles were unlocked and had keys either in the ignition or located within the vehicle. Police remind the community that it is not a good security practice to have spare car keys in the vehicle.
THEFT - 24 March (12 Feb) - A large number of thefts were committed on business premises. There were four thefts from liquor or sporting goods stores with another three committed on petrol stations when offenders drove off without paying for fuel. Police are working with business owners and fuels stations to assist in increasing their security measures.
ISSUES RAISED APRIL –
Roads signs and trees are being damaged at the end of Shakespeare St - Brett to pass to Traralgon for patrols.
Traralgon Railway station toilets and graffiti issue - Andrew Mackintosh will report back at next meeting.
For information on becoming an active participant in NHW or by creating a NHWatch/Safer Communities Group in your area contact Leading Senior Constable Brett Godden on 5131 5085 or 0400 050 749 or email him at brett.godden@police.vic.gov.au
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: malcolml@dcsi.net.au
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Nationals MP Martin Cameron blamed the Victorian Labor government after Opal announced 84 job cuts at Maryvale, arguing forestry policy and timber supply failures caused ongoing workforce losses. - Mobile Service Centres bringing government support across South Gippsland communities an August and September
Australian government Mobile Service Centres will visit 12 South Gippsland communities, offering Medicare, Centrelink, myGov and Veterans’ Affairs assistance, with accessible facilities and Wi-Fi. - East Gippsland Shire Council consults service street businesses on proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation and Nicholson street mall improvements
East Gippsland Shire Council is consulting Service Street businesses on a proposed Bairnsdale taxi rank relocation, while Nicholson Street Mall upgrades aim to improve safety and amenity. - Moe Town Hall seeks resident organisation to activate historic venue through regular community arts programs until 30 September 2026
Latrobe City Council has opened expressions of interest for an organisation to establish an ongoing residency at Moe Town Hall, delivering regular arts, cultural and community activities while keeping the venue accessible. - Live and Loud at GPAC brings AFL Grand Final action, family fun and entertainment to Traralgon on 26 September 2026
Latrobe City Council will host Live and Loud at GPAC on September 26, featuring family activities, entertainment, a ticketed musical-acrobat performance and free live screening of the 2026 AFL Grand Final. - Moe Inline Hockey Championships secure five-year council funding, expected to boost $15M into local economy through visitor spending
Latrobe City Council will provide $100,000 over five years to support Moe’s Australian Inline Hockey Club Championships, expected to generate $15 million locally through visitor spending and accommodation. - Nationals and Liberals pledge PSOs at Morwell and Moe Stations, mobile CCTV trailers and 24-Hour Moe Police Station reopening
The Nationals and Liberals have pledged PSOs at Morwell and Moe stations, mobile CCTV across the Latrobe Valley, and restoring Moe Police Station to 24-hour operations under their community safety plan. - Labor invests $120,000 to modernise Traralgon Library with new study pods and improved community spaces
Harriet Shing joined Latrobe City Mayor Cr Gibson and councillors to announce a $120,000 library upgrade, jointly funded by government and council - East Gippsland Council introduces free Payble online service offering ratepayers flexible, convenient and automatic payment options for rates
East Gippsland Council has introduced Payble, a free, secure online service allowing ratepayers to automate payments, choose flexible schedules, check balances and manage rates conveniently. - Gippsland commuters stranded after V/Line services end early, prompting calls for reliable regional rail services
Melina Bath criticised Gippsland rail disruptions after AFL fans were stranded following an early service cutoff, calling for reliable regional transport and promising 1,110 additional seats on Traralgon and Bairnsdale services. - Wellington Shire Council retains in-house library service following review confirming best value for community needs
Wellington Shire Council has endorsed the outcome of its Wellington Libraries Service Review, confirming library services will continue to be delivered as is. - Cr John White recognised for 10 Years of dedicated service representing East Gippsland communities on council
East Gippsland Councillor John White has been recognised for 10 years of service, including two terms as Mayor, advocating for local priorities and representing communities across government levels. - Maryvale Recreation Reserve completes $920,000 upgrade, enhancing accessibility, facilities, safety and recreation opportunities for the community
Maryvale Recreation Reserve has completed a $920,000 refurbishment, upgrading the Latrobe Cricket Club pavilion, Peter Siddle Oval, drainage, pathways and accessibility, as part of Latrobe City's broader $5 million program. - Labor government invests $750,000 to support young Gippslanders into education, training and employment opportunities
The Victorian Labor government is investing $750,000 in Ladder Step Up Latrobe Valley, supporting 120 young people facing barriers to education, training and employment through 2028. - Melina Bath seeks Labor explanation on Gippsland children face specialist dental service cuts, longer waits and costly travel for treatment
Melina Bath says Gippsland children face longer waits after regional pediatric dental services were cut, forcing families to travel to Melbourne for specialist treatment. - Wellington Shire Council backs West Sale Airport for proposed Gippsland Police Academy training campus
Wellington Shire Council will advocate for a Gippsland Police Academy at West Sale Airport, citing existing infrastructure, the former TAFE campus, expansion capacity and potential regional jobs, investment and training opportunities.
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