More people than last time attended, and we had useful discussions on several topics. The formalities were conducted speedily, and the Chair announced details of the coming NHW State Conference in Brisbane, then information about the Community Safety Awards (see below on an earlier blog for details). She then spoke briefly about NHW and the elderly, emphasising the need to keep a special look-out for those who lived alone, the infirm and the very old, to just make sure they were safe.
One issue that a member of the public had asked us to raise was about the car-parking outside Helensvale Primary School at home-time. One disabled resident had had her driveway blocked completely so that her visiting son could not get his car out. Complaints from another person in the same street were that parents would move if they saw a police-vehicle, but then came back the next day. The challenge for NHW is to change behaviour more permanently. Ideas included actually fining some offenders instead of just giving warnings, and asking the police to have a publicised random "swoop" so that the parents know that one day, if they are illegally parked, they will be caught, but do not know when! Liasing with the principal Mr Pascoe on this issue should happen soon.
Another concern discussed was the recurring problems in the tunnel between the Plaza and Westfield. Grafitti and broken glass reappeared as soon as they were cleaned up. Could a security camera be fitted there? This will be passed on to Clr John Wayne shortly.
The danger to wildlife on Highvale Drive was raised by a concerned resident. Dogs are being exercised off the lead despite a sign saying this is illegal in this wildlife-corridor area. There have been injuries to wallabies and possums here. The Chair emphasised the need to keep all dogs and cats in at night, and to always accompany, and pick up after your dogs.
The crime-figures were then analysed: this quarterly's "hot-spots" were mentioned, and the surprising fact that all the house-burglaries had occurred during daylight hours. The popular image of "Burglar Bill" breaking-in in the dead of night is largely a myth - ( but still lock up at night!!), however, it is part of NHW's role to keep a look out for anything suspicious at any time.
The crime figures are actually down this quarter, reduced from 24 incidents to 16. Is this a co-incidence, or is NHW having an effect? Do keep coming to meetings, it makes a difference. If nothing else, you get to met your neighbours over a cup of coffee or tea. We never ask for donations at our meetings, and refreshments are free. If anyone has transport problems, we can arrange lifts.
Keep safe!
Margaret McDermott
