Leopold public spaces made safer

SMART lighting has been installed at several Leopold bus stops and sections of the Bellarine Rail Trail to improve boost community safety through a joint project between the state government and the City of Greater Geelong.

The Leopold Proactive Pilot Project includes CCTV cameras and a mix of electric and solar-powered lighting that has built in Wi-Fi to improve internet connectivity and allows Public Transport Victoria to provide real-time updates to commuters.

The city undertook extensive community engagement and consulted with Victoria Police, the Department of Justice and Community Safety and Leopold locals before it was determined that Gateway Sanctuary, the Leopold section of the Bellarine Rail Trail and selected bus stops were the best places to install the technology.

The improvements selected by local police and the community will help prevent anti-social behaviour and improve safety for children after school and other commuters or those enjoying the trail.

Gateway Sanctuary was also identified by police through an audit as an area of need for safety improvements.

“Everyone in the community has the right to feel safe as they go about their daily lives,” Geelong local area commander Acting Inspector Nick Uebergang said.

“Crime prevention initiatives such as installation of lighting and CCTV cameras are an important tool in assisting police in our goal of preventing and detecting anti-social behaviour and crime, while also ensuring people feel safer in the community.

“Geelong police continue to work closely with local council and our key partners to deliver a range of community safety initiatives across the Geelong area.”

Employing technology such as smart lighting infrastructure can reduce energy usage, increase public safety, and act as the “backbone” for other smart technologies.

The city received $250,000 from the state government’s 2019-20 Public Safety Infrastructure grants program for the Leopold Proactive Project and also contributed $30,000 towards the project.

Geelong deputy mayor Trent Sullivan said the innovative project provided an important step in encouraging community members to remain active and engaged.

“Perceptions of community safety, whether they are real or perceived, impact on the way people feel and interact in their community.

“Community safety is not just about injury and crime prevention; it is about building strong, cohesive, vibrant and active communities.”

Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason said the initiative would benefit residents and visitors through increased peace of mind while enjoying the natural environment.

“Improved security has far-reaching benefits, meaning that individuals and families enjoy a sustained quality of life, along with ongoing participation in work, leisure and educational activities.

“The wider community has a lot to gain from having a safer, positive and more productive population, and from less demand being placed on the health care and justice systems.”

Greater Geelong is one of 15 areas that shared in a $4.5 million funding boost through the 2022-23 State Budget to continue youth crime prevention project Reignite Geelong for a further year.

“The Bellarine Trail is precious to lots of residents around the Peninsula. It’s great to see these upgrades help those using the trail or nearby public transport feel safe and secure,” Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said.

“These innovative smart lights will provide greater visibility and ensure everybody is comfortable when getting home at the end of the day.”