CCTV switches on in Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove

NEW CCTV cameras are up and running in Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads.

The project has installed 17 in the main shopping strips of the respective towns – 11 in The Terrace and six in Hitchcock Avenue.

It was funded through the federal government’s Safer Communities Fund ($120,000) and the City of Greater Geelong ($15,000), and Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson and Bellarine Ward councillor Stephanie Asher inspected the cameras last week.

Footage from the new cameras, which are now in use in both areas, is recorded at the Ocean Grove Police Station and monitored by police, as required.

“It’s really pleasing to partner with the federal government and police to help address local traders’ concerns about the security of their businesses,” Geelong City’s portfolio holder for community health and safety Cr Kylie Grzybek said.

“CCTV is a cost-effective measure which, when combined with other crime prevention strategies tailored to specific local requirements, can have a positive effect on reducing crime”.

Ms Henderson said she was delighted that her election commitment to provide CCTV in Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove had been delivered.

“CCTV cameras not only act as a deterrent but assists police investigate and solve crimes when they occur.”

The city also recently installed a $60,000 smart lighting system in The Terrace to provide better street lighting and complement the new cameras.