Cameras to improve the security of Dreaming site

Caretakers and locals have welcomed an extra set of eyes that will help to keep watch over the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre in Forbes, now that a funding agreement has been executed to deliver two solar powered closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras for the town.

The Nationals’ Federal Member for Riverina Michael McCormack today announced that as part of Round Two of the Coalition Government’s Safer Streets Program two CCTV cameras would soon be installed at the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre.

Mr McCormack said $13,600.00 in funding has been authorised under Safer Streets Round Two for use by Forbes Shire Council.

Mr McCormack was joined for the announcement in Forbes by the Mayor of Forbes Shire, Councillor Graeme Miller, Constable Michael Copas of Forbes Police and Aileen Allen from the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre.

Cr Miller welcomed the announcement and said that while Forbes was a safe place to live, the project will assist in protecting the Wiradjuri Dreaming site and contribute to greater community safety and resilience.

“CCTV can assist in enhancing perceptions of safety, deterring criminal and anti-social behaviour and assist in helping to apprehend those responsible for crime in the community,” Cr Miller said.

Mr McCormack said only safe communities can be strong and prosperous, and the best way to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour is to prevent it from happening.

“Most importantly, the funds used to pay for this program are from the Proceeds of Crime Account – that is money taken from criminals and reinvested into the community to prevent more crimes,” Mr McCormack said.

“The Coalition Government is delivering on its commitment to assist communities to deliver local solutions to crime hot-spots and anti-social behaviour.”

Further information on the Safer Streets Programme is available atwww.ag.gov.au/crimeandcorruption/crimeprevention/pages/proceedsofcrimeact.aspx or by contacting Mr McCormack’s Wagga Wagga electorate office.

Cristy Houghton