Local Police are encouraging members of the community to get involved in ‘Project Eyewatch’, an internet-based progam updating Neighbourhood Watch for the 21st century, designed to share information between police and the people of New South Wales.
All 80 NSW Commands have implemented the Eyewatch program which allows police officers and their communities to exchange information about crime, using co-ordinated homepages like Facebook.
“Project Eyewatch will allow us to talk about police activity and operational outcomes, to post images of people we’d like to speak to regarding crimes and to reinforce our public messages like personal responsibility when it comes to drinking,” Superintendent Thurtell explained.
“It seems Australians lead busier lives than they ever have before. That’s why it makes sense to update the Neighbourhood Watch concept.
“The Mid-North Coast is a busy area that encompasses three Local Government Areas, so we’re working to further engage those residents and businesses in those local areas.
“Instead of attending community meetings some distance away, people can simply log onto the the Mid-North Coast LAC Project Eyewatch site and share information at their own convenience.
“The information could take the form of police messages about safety or it could relate to tips from the community about how police could better serve the public,” the Commander said.
Project Eyewatch will allow us to discuss traffic issues, major events or crime-related matters with our communities whenever it suits them.
“Of course, if it’s an urgent matter, we would advise them to contact police directly through Triple Zero (000) or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 to provide anonymous information and the Police Assistance Line 131 444 to report non-urgent crime.
“I would urge everyone to support this initiative and help keep the Mid-North Coast a safe place.”
Any persons willing to join a Port Macquarie/Hastings Eyewatch Group on the website please contact Senior Constable Steve Cherry on 6583 0199.
