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Latrobe Crime Watch News, Latrobe Police SErvice Area. March 2011 February Neighbourhood Watch/Safer Communities Group Reports for Morwell, Moe, Yallourn North, Churchill and Traralgon, Morwell Freeway By-pass, Changed Traffic Conditions in Morwell. By Malcolm Lawrence - 20th March 2011 - Back to News Latrobe Crime Watch News
Latrobe Police Service Area
Neighbourhood Watch Creating Safer Communities
MARCH 2011
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Emergency 000 Mobiles 112 State the service you want – Police, Ambulance or Fire.
Nurse on Call 1300 606 024
Poisons Information 13 11 26
VicRoads 131170
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
CLOSURE OF PRINCES FREEWAY MORWELL - UPDATE
Hello residents,
This is my second update regarding the Morwell Land Movement and Princess Freeway closure.
Since the first newsletter, or update there has been some slight movement of some of the cracks, but this was early on and there has been no detectable movement in terms of the cracks in the mine, the freeway or tennis court area for around 10 days now, despite two stints of rain. This is good news.
The mitigation plan is well under way with the mine engaging three drilling rigs to drill a large number of horizontal drain holes into the side of the northern batter. Some of the holes are already draining a small amount of water. This drilling will take around 20 weeks to complete as it is a long process and the holes are significant in length. VicRoads have undertaken testing of the freeway in the area and have advised that there are no detected cavities under the road, which is also great news. They are sinking some bore holes to monitor water levels. They are also installing 'real time' monitoring on the freeway. This will be of great benefit in terms of the analysis of the data it will produce.
An expert has been engaged to work with the Dept of Primary Industry, Latrobe Council, VicRoads and the mine to examine and identify a suitable solution for the stormwater outflow from Morwell which runs along the edge of the freeway so that the water cannot escape and impact the land underneath, when it travels on its way to the wetlands. This work is seen as critical to the longer term solution.
By the time you read this, VicRoads will have opened the extremities of the freeway to allow "Local" traffic access to the next off ramp. Those travelling west will be able to exit toward Churchill and the south Morwell areas and be able to go east on that ramp when returning. Those travelling east will be able to access the turnoff to Mirboo North/Leongatha. It is hoped this will ease congestion slightly.
Unfortunately the long weekend did see some delays, and I myself was caught in it as I headed east through Morwell. I am happy to say that whilst it was slow going, the traffic, at least when I went through, was quite considerate and accepting of the situation.
Looking at the Christchurch Earthquake and now the Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, it puts the Morwell event into context for me. The Morwell event is an inconvenience. It can be frustrating at times and I implore all residents and travellers to be patient. Much work is being done to work through solutions which will enable the freeway to be opened as soon as humanly possible.
Regards
Geoff Newby
Superintendent
Incident Controller
MARCH NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH/SAFER COMMUNITIES GROUP REPORTS
MORWELL MEETING and CRIME REPORT
FEBRUARY ISSUES - Nil
CRIME REPORT
INDECENT ASSAULT – An indecent assault was committed at the Princes Highway end of the Waterhole Creek walking track. The male offender is described as very tall, dark skinned, wearing a hoody and track suit pants. In another incident an offender has been charged with indecent assault.
ROBBERY - 4 for Feb (1 Jan) - Two offenders have been charged with robbery/armed robbery offences. Two other victims had phones or cash stolen from them by a group of youths. Enquiries are pending.
ASSAULT - 19 for Feb (16 Jan) - In nearly all cases an offender/s has been charged. A number came to notice as a result of family violence incidents. Two offenders were charged after an incident in Beattie Cres on the 11th February. Two others were charged as a result of an armed robbery.
ARSON - 2 for Feb (9 Jan) - Offenders set fire to a rubbish bin at the rear of a premises in Rintoull St. Damage was also done to a vehicle later in the month.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 36 for Feb (51 Jan) - Two offenders were charged with property damage offences. The 36 offences can be broken into three groups. Ten businesses had windows or glass doors broken by rocks or by kicking. Thirteen vehicles had windows smashed by various means. Eight residences had windows broken by either rocks or objects being thrown. Mitchell House was again targeted. Police ask the community around this village to be aware of suspicious behaviour and report it to police or Crimestoppers.
BURGLARY - 13 for Feb (27 Jan) - Most burglaries were committed after forcing entry to residential premises or sheds. There was no pattern with the offences being spread throughout town.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 2 for Feb (17 Jan) - A portable DVD player was stolen from a vehicle in Winifred St. Offenders have also attempted to steal the baby seat from the vehicle. Plates were stolen off a vehicle in a car park in Buckley St.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 2 for Feb (8 Jan) - A four wheel drive motorbike was stolen from a shed which was also the subject of a burglary in Donald Street. The bike was later recovered by the owner. On the 1st February a vehicle which was unlocked and with the windows down was stolen from Phyllis Street. It has since been recovered and returned to the owner.
THEFT - 17 for Feb (16 Jan) - One offender was charged with theft of fuel from a service station. Police are following up suspects in a number of thefts and shop thefts. One victim was approached in a car park and offered a $20 gift card for $20 cash. When the card was redeemed it was found to have less than $2 on the card. Police remind the community if approached by someone offering gift cards or charity cards for cash to notify police ASAP. Cash was removed from an account after an ATM card was lost. The victim had the card replaced but not cancelled. Police remind the community that if you lose or have your credit/debit card stolen to have the cards cancelled not just replaced.
ISSUES RAISED MARCH – 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.
YALLOURN NORTH MEETING and CRIME REPORT
FEBRUARY ISSUES - nil
CRIME REPORT
ASSAULT - 1 for Feb (Nil Jan) - One offender is being followed up by police after an assault as a result of family violence.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 2 for Feb (Nil Jan) - Both offences relate to vehicles. In the first case a suspect is being followed up for smashing a windscreen. In the second incident a vehicle was damaged by kicking.
BURGLARY - Nil for Feb (Nil Jan)
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 1 for Feb (1 Jan) - Offenders entered the Boral yard in Quarry Rd and stole a CB radio from one of the unlocked trucks. An aerial from a nearby shed was also stolen.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - 2 for Feb (Nil Jan) - Sometime overnight on the 18th/19th February offenders stole a vehicle from the victim’s driveway. Neither vehicle has been recovered.
THEFT (OTHER) - 3 for Feb (1 Jan) - TRUEnergy have again been the target with offenders entering a yard and stealing an amount of copper wire. Police ask the community to report breaches of the fence around the power station when they see them. Offenders have stolen diesel fuel from farm machinery at a premises on McDonalds Track.
ISSUES RAISED MARCH – 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.
MOE MEETING and CRIME REPORT
FEBRUARY ISSUES
Vehicles (motor cycles) using the bush reserve behind Latrobe Valley Village - To Latrobe Highway Patrol. LCC informed.
Baw Baw Hotel in state of disrepair - LCC states as the building is unoccupied it has no jurisdiction. Not a police issue.
Motorised mobility devices and the impression they have complete right of way - This is an education issue.
Trucks unloading in Albert St and blocking view of oncoming traffic - Brett to follow up.
Burnt out house at Watsons Rd/John St is an eyesore needing demolition – Contact LCC or estate agent. Not a police issue.
Concern re pedestrian safety re exit stop sign positioning from lane beside Moe Town Hall. - Brett provided advice.
Compensation re land acquisitions in George St to be paid by ratepayers – Not a police/NHW issue. Take issue up with LCC.
CRIME REPORT - HOMICIDE - One offender charged with two counts of murder after an incident in High Street, Moe.
ASSAULT - 14 for Feb (23 Jan) - Ten offenders charged with assault offences. One offender charged with assault police and three counts of making threats to kill after an incident in Brownbill St. The same offender was involved in an incident the day before in Waterloo Rd. A number of offences came to police notice as a result of family violence issues.
ARSON - 2 for Feb (3 Jan) - Offenders used an accelerant to set fire to two bins outside a rural property. In the other arson offenders set fire to the kitchen sink area of a vacant house in Torres St.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 17 for Feb (18 Jan) - One offender charged as a result of a family violence incident. A large number of vehicles were damaged with windscreens being damaged by rocks, garden ornaments or other implements. Three incidents of damage occurred in the Randall Cres/King St area on the night of the 25th February when offenders splashed paint over three vehicles. The Newborough Primary School was targeted twice with a fire hydrant damaged and a window being smashed. Police ask the community to be aware of who is around schools and kinders over weekends and report any suspicious behaviour to 000.
BURGLARY - 4 for Feb (10 Jan) - Unknown offenders entered the construction site at the Newborough East Primary stealing tools from a locked box. Offenders stole a handbag that was left in a kitchen. It appears that this may be related to a male attempting to enter houses whilst the victims were present in the Lloyd St area.
THEFT FROM MOTOR CAR - 6 for Feb (17 Jan) - Whilst the drop in the number of TFMC is pleasing it is still frustrating that vehicle owners are leaving their vehicles unlocked and valuable property inside. Two laptops were stolen from from vehicles that were left unlocked, as were wallets from two other unlocked vehicles. This makes it very easy for the opportunistic thief.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for Feb (12 Jan)
THEFT (OTHER) - 12 for Feb (16 Jan) - Two handbags were stolen at the Moe Outdoor Pool on the 1st Feb. Police remind the community to be aware of their property at all times. Gunns Gully Service Station had fuel stolen on three occasions with follow-up information provided to police.
ISSUES RAISED MARCH MEETING –
NHW sign has still not been erected in High St, Moe - Brett to follow up with the depot.
CHURCHILL and DISTRICT MEETING and CRIME REPORT
FEBRUARY ISSUES - Nil
CRIME REPORT - ASSAULTS - 6 for Feb (8 Jan) – Of the six incidents of assault offenders have been charged in all bar one. For the remaining incident, a brawl at the Churchill Hotel, suspects have been identified and will be followed up by police.
ARSON - Nil for Feb (Nil Jan)
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 5 for Feb (12 Jan) - Two offenders were charged after an incident in Dunbar Gr. Plants were removed from the Lumen Christie School. Police ask the community to be aware of suspicious activity around schools and playgrounds especially over weekends and school holidays.
BURGLARY - 8 for Feb (7 Jan) - Two offenders have been charged with multiple counts of burglary after offences committed in Northways Rd. Two other offenders were charged after committing a burglary in Nadenbousch Rd.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 2 for Feb (5 Jan) - Two unlocked vehicles were entered making it easy for opportunistic thieves. Stolen were a work bag with personal information and a laptop from each vehicle. Witnesses watched the offenders in one vehicle and then pursued them. Police advise when observing something like this to ring police immediately on 000.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for Feb (2 Jan)
THEFT - 5 for Feb (1 Jan) - Police remind the community to be aware of their property at all times. A number of this month’s thefts were committed when the victims left handbags/purses/mobile phones in a spot/room and then moved away from their property.
TRARALGON MEETING and CRIME REPORT
FEBRUARY ISSUES - Nil
CRIME REPORT
ASSAULT - 15 Feb (18 Jan) - Five offenders charged. Alcohol and family violence are still very prevalent in Traralgon incidents.
ARSON - 2 Feb (1 Jan) - Offenders set fire to wheelie bins behind premises in Livingstone St. A house in Shakespeare St was targeted with various points of ignition along the wall. No person was injured and property damage was minimal.
PROPERTY DAMAGE - 28 for Feb (24 Jan) - A large number were committed on vehicles either parked outside or in the driveways of residential premises. Various implements from stones to pieces of wood were used to damage windows. Residential windows were also targeted with cans, stones and bottles thrown for no apparent reason.
BURGLARY - 10 for Feb (11 Jan) - Most were committed on residential premises. Laptops and cash were the main items stolen. A charity tin from the bakery in Church St was stolen overnight on 23rd of Feb. Offenders removed louvres from a window at the rear of premises to gain easy access. Police advise it is a good idea to replace louvres with a solid window as a security measure.
THEFT FROM MOTOR VEHICLE - 15 for Feb (10 Jan) – Nine of the 15 vehicles were unlocked. Of the nine eight were in residential driveways. In every incident items were left in full view of opportunistic thieves. There were three incidents in the Mafeking Rd/Gilwell Ave/Pax Rd on 13th Feb. Another 3 incidents occurred in the Duxbury Dr/St Georges Rd area on the 11th.
THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE - Nil for Feb (6 Jan)
THEFT - 12 for Feb (10 Jan) - Two victims had their phones stolen at the entertainment precinct when they left the items sitting on tables whilst they went somewhere else in the club. Police remind the community to be vigilant about their property at all times. Handbags are also targeted by thieves in the venues. Two offenders were charged with shoplifting after a theft at Safeway on the 13th February.
ISSUES RAISED MARCH – 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.
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.
TRAFFIC CHANGES AROUND MORWELL AND SURROUNDS DUE TO FREEWAY CLOSURE
Police advise the community to increase observation and exercise heightened awareness in and around the Morwell district due to increased vehicular traffic on normally low traffic volume roads during the closure of the Princes Freeway at Morwell. Police patrols have been stepped up to monitor traffic behaviour and infringement notices will be issued to offending drivers.
Real-Time Monitoring: Residents may have noticed orange trailers at the intersection of McDonalds Street and Princes Way and at Princes Way and Jane Street near the railway bridges. These are VicRoads trailers with a traffic monitoring camera attached. It is not a speed camera. This provides VicRoads with the ability to monitor traffic in the Morwell CBD in real time and to respond to incidents as they develop.
Speed Restriction Changes: East of Morwell the 100 km speed restriction has been removed and it is now a consistent 80 km per hour from Vincent Road (The Top Pub) through to Airfield Road (Latrobe Regional Hospital).
Pedestrian Safety: Changed traffic conditions in the Morwell CBD has proved problematic for pedestrians along Commercial Road and and Princes Drive. Pedestrian safety is paramount. Please be aware of pedestrians at all times.
Commercial Road Pedestrian Lights: These were previously ‘on demand’ lights meaning at times only one or two vehicles could pass before the lights changed back to red for vehicular traffic. On the recommendation of police, Vicroads have advised the cycle has now been changed and the minimum time between cycles has been increased to one minute. This will allow the increased traffic volume on Commercial Road to flow more smoothly.
Princes Drive Mid Valley Pedestrian Lights: East bound motorists have been booked for failing to stop at these traffic lights on a regular basis. The most given excuse is that the driver is not noticing the lights as they are concentrating on those at the intersection at Bridle Road. The $299 (3 points) on the spot fine is helping drivers to increase their observational skills.
Increased Traffic Volume on Back Roads: Back roads in the Latrobe Valley, particularly North Road/Brown Coalmine Road/Moe-Glengarry Road from Yallourn North through Tyres, Glengarry and onto Rosedale; Latrobe Road Morwell and then Old Melbourne Road through to Traralgon and the Traralgon West Road have have seen significant increase in traffic volume. Police are patrolling these roads and motorists are advised to be aware of local traffic and pedestrian activity in these rural areas.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: malcolml@dcsi.net.au
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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. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - Darren Chester says Gippsland’s 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns and calls for tobacco excise reform
Gippsland MP Darren Chester says 15 suspected illicit tobacco store closures highlight organised crime concerns, advocating an 80 percent tobacco excise cut alongside stronger enforcement to combat the black market. - 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. - 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. - Morwell CBD double-storey car park set to deliver more than 120 additional free parking spaces soon
Preparation works have begun for Morwell’s new double-storey CBD car park, expected to start construction in October, adding more than 120 free spaces and completing Latrobe City’s Regional Car Parks Fund projects. - 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. - Morwell Historical Society opens exhibition celebrating Northway Family’s pioneering legacy and Hazelwood’s early history for community visitors
Federal and state MPs opened Morwell Historical Society’s Pioneering Northway Family Exhibition, showcasing three generations of Hazelwood pioneers through photographs, documents and maps until November 29. - 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. - 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. - The Nationals blame Labor government after 84 more jobs cut at Maryvale paper mill in Latrobe Valley
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. - Morwell Rose Festival returns with blooms, aerial acrobatics, night lights, workshops and family entertainment from 6-7 November 2026
Morwell Rose Festival returns for its ninth year in 2026, featuring thousands of roses, aerial performances, night lights, workshops, market stalls, live entertainment and family-friendly activities. - Morwell International Rose Garden Festival unveils exciting 2026 program ahead of November celebration
Morwell’s free International Rose Garden Festival returns November 6–7, featuring entertainment, workshops, markets, children’s activities and spectacular Night Lights, celebrating the region’s iconic gardens with more than 4,000 roses. - Better Place Australia opens new Traralgon office to expand family support services across Gippsland amid rising community needs
Better Place Australia has opened a new Traralgon office to expand family support services across Gippsland, addressing challenges including family separation, violence, financial stress and child vulnerability. - 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. - 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. - 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 - Have your say on the Planning Scheme Amendment C161egip - Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area (Revised) to unlock growth until 21 September 2026
East Gippsland Shire Council is simplifying planning controls in Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area, aiming to unlock housing growth, reduce red tape and support development over the next 30-plus years. - 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. - The Nationals pledge $10M boost for Victoria's Neighbourhood Houses, supporting community hubs facing rising demand and cost pressures
The Nationals have pledged $10 million over four years for Victoria's Neighbourhood Houses, including $4 million for existing services and $6 million to establish and expand hubs in growing regions. - Melina Bath honours Colin "Stocky" Stockdale for 63 years of outstanding CFA service to South Gippsland community
Melina Bath congratulated Colin "Stocky" Stockdale on receiving the CFA's highest honour, recognising his 63 years of leadership, mentorship and dedicated service protecting South Gippsland communities. - Gippsland community groups invited to apply for grants up to $20,000 under Stronger Communities Program Round 10 until 23 November 2026
Gippsland community organisations can apply for $2,500 to $20,000 grants under Round 10 of the Stronger Communities Programme, with $150,000 available for local infrastructure and social benefit projects. - Cowes Freedom of Entry Parade marks 125 years of Australia's Commonwealth Naval Forces and naval service tradition parade on 7 August 2026
Bass Coast Shire Council invites the community to Cowes' Freedom of Entry Parade on August 7, celebrating 125 years of Australia's naval heritage with HMAS Cape Woolamai personnel and the Royal Australian Navy Band. - East Gippsland communities transform emergency water tanks into vibrant murals celebrating resilience, recovery and local stories
East Gippsland communities have transformed emergency water tanks into vibrant murals celebrating resilience and recovery, with artworks completed at four locations and three more projects planned for Gipsy Point, South Buchan and Benambra. - 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.
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