Crime fighters

By Casey Neill
EMERALD Scouts and Cockatoo Pony Club have received cash to combat crime.
Emerald Scouts committee chairman Jeff Latter said the group’s Kilvington Drive hall had a history of graffiti, vandalism and other anti-social activities.
The clean-up bill takes much-needed funds away from the Scouts, but Mr Latter hoped a $8100 State Government grant would fix all that.
It will fund a safety upgrade that will include new outdoor lighting, locks and latches, lockable bollards to prevent cars from accessing the hall’s rear, a sliding door and more.
Mr Latter said new laminated windows would crack and hold in place rather than break into shards, and internal window bars would be more inviting than current external mesh.
He said vandals regularly tried to force entry to the club’s shed, which is filled with old camping equipment.
Gembrook MP Brad Battin said it would be a relief for the Scouts to know that equipment and goods stored on the site would be safe and secure.
“The Scouts do a tremendous amount for the community, and it’s important that their premises are safeguarded,” he said.
The cash for Emerald Scouts was among $1 million awarded to about 150 community groups throughout the state last month through the Your Community, Your Say crime prevention initiative.
“Grants such as this enable us to handle issues of safety and security at a grassroots level,” Mr Battin said.
He said Cockatoo Pony Club would receive $2900 to buy a steel shipping container and install security floodlights.
“Cockatoo Pony Club can now store its equipment safely, making it easier for members to enjoy club activities,” he said.
“The club provides valuable support for the young horse-riding members of our community.”