Speaker panel at the Neighbourhood Policing Forum. Photo: Cr Kate Roper
HASTINGS — Around 150 residents, business owners, and service representatives gathered at the Hastings Bowling Club yesterday for the Neighbourhood Policing Forum, an event aimed at fostering direct dialogue between local police and the community.
Hosted by Victoria Police, the three-hour session covered key issues affecting the peninsula, including current crime trends, family violence, youth engagement, drug-related crime, and road safety. Attendees heard from a panel of local officers before having the opportunity to ask questions from the floor.
Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Kate Roper, who attended alongside the CEO and several council officers, said the forum provided valuable insights into policing methods and crime statistics for the area.
“Questions were asked on a range of topics, and afterwards people could speak one-on-one with officers,” Cr Roper said.
“Community police members were there to talk about programs, training, and even opportunities for those interested in joining the police.”
Police reiterated simple but important crime prevention measures, such as locking vehicles and doors and avoiding leaving valuables in cars — a recurring issue in local theft statistics.
The event concluded with informal networking, allowing community members to connect directly with police about concerns and initiatives.
Victoria Police runs neighbourhood forums across the state as part of its strategy to strengthen local engagement and tailor policing responses to community priorities.
