North Lakes Takes the Cake

A record 135 people turned out to the public meeting in May to form North Lakes (Petrie 8) NHW. With a population of only 850, the turnout was definitely an occasion to be celebrated. District Crime Prevention Coordinator Sergeant Peter Van Vree said the response by residents has restored his faith in the community. The aim of Neighbourhood Watch is to encourage residents to be observant and to report suspicious behaviour to the police. "We want people to be vigilant, not vigilantees" Van Vree states.

A mix of young, old and middle-aged people turned out for the meeting, with forty people applying for zone and block coordinator positions. Of course the saying rings true 'many hands make light work', and help is always needed in running a NHW. Darryl Horn, the newly elected Area Coordinator says that keeping residents enthusiastic about the scheme was his biggest challenge. With a new Police Beat opening in the area soon, residents will be able to see how police and the community can establish working relationships to keep crime down in their area.

In a new area such as North Lakes the role of NHW is tenfold. At present, theft from building sites in the estate is a major problem, and this activity can be monitored by existing residents, with help and guidance from NHW. It also serves as a way to introduce new residents to the community and enables new friendship to be formed.