Bacchus Marsh Neighbourhood Watch plans stall

PLANS for a Neighbourhood Watch group and program in Bacchus Marsh have lost momentum, but a leading proponent is not giving up on the idea.

Moorabool Shire councillor and Bacchus Marsh resident Sheila Freeman said two of three intending senior office bearers had withdrawn due to other commitments, leaving the proposal basically in limbo.

But Cr Freeman said she and others behind the push remained determined to establish a group.

She said family commitments had caused the intending secretary to drop out and an official group could not really proceed without one.

“The time involved is not that great; we might have to have a couple of meetings to get it going, but once it’s all organised it may be a meeting once every two or three months,” Cr Freeman said.

“So it’s not a great time commitment.”

Vigilant: Installing theft-proof screws on number plates is one way that Neighbourhood Watch reccomends people can protect themselves from crime. Photos: SUPPLIED

In March this year, Cr Freeman – a retired bail justice and an active Justice of the Peace – helped to organise a public meeting on a Neighbourhood Watch group’s formation that attracted about 25 people.

Cr Freeman said Neighbourhood Watch is not about physically intervening when crimes take place.

“It’s just about if you see things happening let the police know, things like that,” she said.

“Mainly it’s looking after each other in your own little communities…and keep an eye out on what’s happening in your street.”

Neighbourhood Watch hosts regular events to help people safeguard their property.

Cr Freeman said a Facebook page set up for the proposed group (known as Neighbourhood Watch Bacchus Marsh and Surrounds) had more than 100 followers, indicating that interest certainly exists.

“People do want it,” she said. “Now we need to try and get everyone revved up and take a leading role in it.”

Cr Freeman said she was willing to help out as much as she could, considering her other commitments such as the council, but office bearers were vital.

“Particularly a secretary; you need a secretary,” she said. “Like I said, it’s not onerous at all.”

Anyone interested in getting involved can make themselves known via the Facebook page or alternatively call Cr Freeman on 0419 725 652.