Community determined to deter crime

A Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) group in Daisy Hill has been looking out for the local community for 25 years.

The group’s founder, Area Coordinator John Devaus, says Daisy Hill NHW started with residents from 300 local homes and now includes more than 1,000 houses – from John Paul Dr to Paradise Rd, crossing Chatswood Rd, from Achilles Dr to Deloraine St and streets around St Edwards Catholic Primary School.

He says NHW volunteers work closely with local police to manage any crime spikes and inform residents on how to protect their property.

A monthly newsletter provides updates on crime prevention tips, such as installing special screws on car number plates which make it harder for thieves to steal them.

‘A lot of the time, crime prevention is common sense and avoiding simple mistakes like leaving a door or window open or unlocked,’ John says.

‘Our NHW has a strong focus on staging events such as community morning teas, barbecues and a Halloween event that brings community members together with police representatives to raise community awareness of strategies to improve personal safety and home security.’

Division 3 Councillor Mindy Russell says the Daisy Hill Neighbourhood Watch group is a shining example of what can be achieved by working together.

‘To be looking out for each other and helping to deter local crime for 25 years is amazing,’ Cr Russell says.

‘I commend everyone involved for their efforts over that time and urge other residents in other neighbourhoods across Division 3 to get involved with, or form, their own Neighbourhood Watch groups.’

A celebration of the anniversary is planned for later this year.

More information on Neighbourhood Watch is available at: www.nhwq.org

PHOTO AT TOP: Cr Mindy Russell (right) with Daisy Hill Neighbourhood Watch volunteers Jill and John Devaus.