Those were the words of Griffith Local Area Command’s crime prevention officer Marc Roberts at a meeting this week to re-form a Neighbourhood Watch committee in Leeton shire. 

About 60 people turned out to hear from Constable Roberts and Inspector Kim Traynor. 

Organised by the Leeton Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the meeting met its goal, with a Neighbourhood Watch committee now established. 

The idea behind the group will be to educate the community on crime, as well as take areas of concerns to police. 

“The idea of the old Neighbourhood Watch and the ‘safety house’ is dead,” Constable Roberts said. 

“It’s about having a dedicated committee that discusses what they believe are the biggest crime issues happening in Leeton and bringing that to police. 

“As police we don’t know what these issues are unless we are told. 

“Our job is to attend incidents that have been called in. 

“Unless you call us to let us know a crime is being committed or you are worried a crime is about to be committed, how would we know what is going on in that area?

“That’s why Neighbourhood Watch is also about educating the community. 

“Don’t be afraid to call Triple Zero. If you see a crime happening or you are worried for your safety, call Triple Zero. 

“The car that is closest to you will respond immediately.”

The idea of re-forming the Neighbourhood Watch program came following a recent spate in break and enters in the shire. 

Constable Roberts said Leeton remained a safe place to live. 

“By having a Neighbourhood Watch committee we are opening up the lines of communication,” he said. “If you are concerned about something take it to that group. 

“They will work out what is the most pressing, communicate that to police and we will investigate.”

The first Neighbourhood Watch meeting will be held on February 2 at the Leeton library from 7pm, with all residents welcome to attend.