Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has written to the Police Minister the Hon Mark Ryan MP requesting local police prioritise monitoring around the Weinam Creek area following a spate of recent vandalism.
Cr Williams said her plea to the Minister followed several cars being vandalised one Saturday night recently, with one car being overturned.
“As law enforcement to ensure safety in public carparks is a Police responsibility, I wrote to the Police Minister and local State Member yesterday seeking assistance for local resources to be prioritised to proactively monitor the Weinam Creek area and respond to these incidents,” Cr Williams said.
“My letter to the Minister also invited the Minister to meet with me and the local member at Weinam Creek to discuss this important matter with residents.
“I will also be writing to TransLink as operator of the terminal and requesting a meeting to discuss what assistance they can provide to monitor and improve safety in the area.”
In light of the recent vandalism Cr Williams has also called on residents and visitors to act as the eyes and ears of the community and report illegal or suspicious behaviour to Crime Stoppers or the Queensland Police Service.
“While the power and authority to deal with these crimes rests with the Queensland Police, Council strongly condemns any damage and theft caused by vandals and will do everything we can to help with the fight against vandalism,” Mayor Williams said.
“The recent vandalism to vehicles in the Weinam Creek Ferry terminal carpark on Sunday night is appalling – Queensland Police have commenced investigations and anyone with information that could lead to the prosecution of offenders should contact Crime Stoppers or the local police.”
Federal Member for Bowman, Andrew Laming, has challenged the State Government and council to contribute, with the Federal Government, to install CCTV cameras in the area.
“I'm calling for a three-way government solution to install CCTV cameras in the area.
“Stronger Communities funding from me needs Council to pay for installation and Kim Richards to match the investment with back-to-base Police monitoring, Andrew Laming said.
Residents and visitors to the City can report illegal or suspicious behaviour to:
· Crime Stoppers – www.crimestoppersqld.com.au or on 1800 333 000
· The Queensland Police Service – 131 444
