By Vanessa Chircop
POLICE have promised to come down hard on antisocial behaviour this summer.
As the weather continues to warm residents will see an increase in marked and unmarked patrols in Hobsons Bay.
Acting Inspector of Hobsons Bay Tim O’Connor told Star increasing patrols is not about stopping people from having a good time but about making sure everyone has a good time this summer.
“We just really want to clamp down or stamp out unsociable behaviour,” he said.
“We want people to come down and enjoy the area but we want people to have a good time and respect other people’s wishes as well.”
A Summer Safety Launch will be held this Sunday to promote Altona and Hobsons Bay as a family friendly place to visit this summer.
Kim Walsh from Altona Village Traders Association said in previous years antisocial behaviour has been a problem but has dramatically decreased since the summer safety initiative was launched in 2009.
“Last year together with hired security guards and the police we increased patrols in the area and saw a decrease in antisocial behaviour,” he said.
“There will be jumping castles, face painting, sketch artists on the day – we just want it to be a great family day to encourage people to come to Altona.”
Acting Inspect O’Connor said stamping out antisocial behaviour would be their main focus this summer.
“Antisocial behaviour is a broad term but that is what we’re focussing on,” he said.
“We appreciate the attraction of the beaches in Altona and Williamstown.
“We appreciate that a lot people want the visit the beaches because it’s a natural thing to do on hot days – but it’s also about ensuring that people who go there are having a safe and a good time and not disrupting the amenities for other people who want to use the vicinity.”
“We’re there to make sure people do have a good time and we’re going to come down on those who are intent of spoiling it for others.” The Summer Safety Launch will be held this Sunday 21 November at Logan Reserve from noon to 5pm.
