July 9 saw the Surfers Paradise Policing Division introduce 2 new Volunteers in Policing to the local community. The purpose of the volunteers is to carry out a range of voluntary tasks that complement but do not compete with the established responsibilities of police officers and other paid staff members. In general, these tasks will assist police to deliver a range of services designed to reduce crime and to help people feel safe.
As part of their first day on the job the volunteers assisted a number of officers from Surfers Paradise deliver a safety message to some young students.
In consultation with the Officer in Charge of the Surfers Paradise Police Station the volunteers will, over the next few months be taking up with local businesses, engaging with owners/managers in order to encourage participation in a Business Watch program.
The aim of the program, in an effort to strengthen engagement with our community is to invite local businesses to work collaboratively with the police here at Surfers Paradise (and other partners) to problem solve and strategically plan for a safe and secure environment. A key to the success of the business watch will be through effective communication channels which allows for the timely exchange of information.
The initial phase of the program has the volunteers inviting business owners and or managers to enroll onto the Neighbourhood Watch Queensland myPolice blog which provides daily information from around the state. We trust you will find this a blog a useful source of information.
In the meantime if you would like to become involved in the Business Watch program or for more information regarding Business Watch Strategies please contact the Gold Coast District Crime Prevention Unit on 55812840 or the Surfers Paradise Police Station directly on 56576888
Regards S/Sgt Lavonda J Maloy
