A Gisborne resident has started a petition calling for a higher police presence in town.
Sharyn Ward, started the change.org petition because she is seeking the Gisborne police station to be transformed into a 24-7 facility.
“Living in Gisborne … I have witnessed first-hand the impact crime has on our community,” she said in her petition.
“It can be unsettling, disrupting and at times frightening. Reports of vandalism, theft, and even violent incidents have been increasing in our area, and residents are growing more concerned about their safety.”
Ms Ward said the community should not have to “live in fear” without a 24-7 operational police station.
“A police presence at all hours is crucial not just for emergency response, but also for preventative measures that can deter crime before it starts,” she said.
“The safety and wellbeing of our community depend on having law enforcement available and accessible at all times.
“Transforming our local police station into a full-time operational facility would provide greater security and peace of mind to all residents of Gisborne and surrounding areas.”
The petition, which was put to Macedon MP Mary-Anne Thomas, Police and Community Safety Minister Anthony Carbines and law enforcement agencies, currently has 137 signatures.
Gisborne police moved to reassure the community that police were available around the clock.
“While the Gisborne police station’s public reception counter may not always be open 24-7, please be aware that a dedicated 24-hour response unit operates from the Gisborne police station,” Acting Sergeant Steve Mazziol said in a statement shared to the Macedon Ranges police Eyewatch Facebook page .
“This means that even if the front counter is closed, police officers are on duty and responding to calls for assistance around the clock.”
Sergeant Mazziol reminded the community to call triple-0 in an emergency, or call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 to report non-urgent crimes.
“We hear your concerns and appreciate your active engagement in community safety discussions,” he said.
“We are committed to ensuring a visible and effective police presence across the Macedon Ranges.”
