CCTV helping to keep Geelong’s streets and beaches safe

A GEELONG local is spending this summer period monitoring, maintaining and ensuring the safety of Geelong’s beaches and city streets.

Steven Spiranovic has been the City of Greater Geelong’s CCTV project officer for the past nine years and looks after nearly 300 cameras connected to the region’s Safe City Network.

The cameras which are monitored 24/7 by Victoria Police help to identify anti-social behaviour, graffiti, dangerous driving and illegal dumping.

Each week, Mr Spiranovic carries out tasks that can become quite time consuming, including looking at up to 50-60 hours of footage a week.

He also has to ensure all cameras are always online and is in charge of detecting any power issues.

He knows his role is critical to maintaining the safety of central Geelong, suburbs and our Safe City Network.

“We’ve had multiple success stories in catching offenders using the camera network and working in conjunction with Victoria Police.

“One evening while monitoring the cameras, I came across four men using an illegal substance in a vehicle.

“I rang Triple Zero and a police van soon arrived. That course of action stopped the man driving away while under the influence of a drug and causing a potential road accident.

“We also had a near drowning that was saved by the quick action of the lifeguards [after I alerted them] and calling Triple Zero and getting that ambulance there, ASAP.”

City of Greater Geelong mayor Cr Stretch Kontelj said the City was leveraging more smart technology and data to improve safety in Greater Geelong.

“We know that the presence of CCTV provides a sense of security, enabling community members to feel more comfortable in public spaces.

“Our Safe City Network acts as a deterrent but is also helping Victoria Police as a valuable tool for investigation and evidence collection.”

“These cameras are monitored around the clock, 24/7, by Victoria Police.”