By Cr Colleen Fuller

It has been a difficult couple of weeks for the Gunnedah shire with crime impacting in the most devastating way on our community and beyond.

Along with many other areas of regional New South Wales, we have been experiencing an increase in crime and have been calling on the state government for action for some time.

We have police who are stretched to the limit and have no 24-hour policing, despite the fact that crime happens around the clock.

Close to a year ago, the NSW Government announced a $26.2 million package of reforms and initiatives to support community safety, including a $13.4 million pilot program at Moree. The Member for Northern Tablelands Brendan Moylan has said there are community concerns the program is not working.

In Gunnedah shire, we have seen no real change for the better. We still do not have increased police resources or 24-hour policing.

As the last few weeks have shown, we still have a real problem with crime. Stolen and burnt out cars, break-ins, incidents of violence and domestic violence and the tragic spree that led to the death of a motorcyclist have left people grieving, angry and afraid.

The government package of reforms only came following pressure from regional councils and organisations, led by the NSW Country Mayors Association. While the reform package response was welcome, it has failed to make a difference.

We need solid, tangible support from the state government to assist in keeping Gunnedah and regional New South Wales safe. In the meantime, we all need to look out for our family and our neighbours without making the situation even worse by resorting to violence.

On a happier note, it’s time for our students to go back to school.

It’s an exciting time for both students and their parents, with many children attending a new school for the first time.

I urge everyone to take care on the roads at this time. Parents can

familarise themselves with the drop-off and parking zones at schools, remember to follow the road rules and signs, and know that they may not be able to park right at the school gates.

Other motorists can help by being patient and being aware of school zones and keeping an eagle eye out for pedestrians young and old.

Best wishes to all those students who are starting out on a new adventure this year.

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