Neighbourhood Watch leader receives award

A MEMBER of Torquay and Jan Juc’s Neighbourhood Watch was recognised for his service at the 2018 Neighbourhood Watch State Awards, which were announced earlier this month.

Long-time area co-ordinator of the group David Cheatley received a State Award of Honour, which recognises the individual or group that implements innovative projects, programs or partnerships which enhance community safety through the prevention of crime, and encourage volunteering and community participation, thus contributing to the quality of life for those in the community.

Mr Cheatley and the Torquay/Jan Juc NHW have led the charge against the persistent problem of theft from cars in the community by spreading the “Lock It, Remove it or Lose It” message to both locals and tourists.

Their initiatives have included interactive displays at Torquay’s annual High Tide Festivals, shopping centre displays during peak holiday periods to raise awareness of holiday makers, posters and brochure distribution to caravan parks and accommodation facilities, and carpark signage at beachside carparks during Christmas and Easter holiday periods.

Mr Cheatley also organised for Torquay Auto Services to fit security screws to the number plates on cars that come in for a service.

Mr Cheatley said he was “both surprised and delighted to humbly accept the award on behalf of NHW volunteers and their partnership with volunteer groups such as the SES and Lions Club who help make this all possible”.

He said he was pleased that teamwork was at the forefront in supporting local police significantly curb crime in the community.