Graffiti clean-up

Mount Evelyn Neighbourhood Watch committee member Ian James, Leading Senior Constable Crime Prevention Officer Linda Hancock, chairman Mount Evelyn Neighbourhood Watch Geoffrey K. Welsh and Chris Jay (with hose) - Yarra Ranges Graffiti Busters. 139962 Picture: VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS

By VICTORIA STONE-MEADOWS

THE Mount Evelyn Neighbourhood Watch has had 45 of its street signs cleaned and repaired by the Yarra Ranges Graffiti Response Unit.
The Mount Evelyn NHW has received support from the local police, while the Yarra Ranges Council has a committed volunteer group that promotes safety in the Mount Evelyn community.
In a recent audit conducted by Ian James, committee member of the Mount Evelyn Neighbourhood Watch (NHW), it was found that many of the signs had been damaged or vandalised.
Chairman for the Mount Evelyn NHW Geoffrey Welsh said it was great to see the council working together with NHW volunteers.
The Mount Evelyn NHW and its supporters are quiet achievers who have been going about the business of crime prevention for many years.
“These street signs are a visual reminder of this community organisation,” Mr Welsh said.
“Community engagement and resilience are buzz words today.
“But really, they are the original objectives of Neighbourhood Watch.”
The NHW is a community organisation that’s all about knowing your neighbours and community and looking after each other.
The NWH says community members reporting suspicious behaviour greatly assist police in patrolling areas where crimes are occurring.
Newsletters for the Mount Evelyn NHW are distributed around Mount Evelyn bi-monthly and are available at the Community Link.
The newsletters contain valuable suggestions for protecting your home, motor vehicle and our community.
It also shows what areas and types of crime happen in Mount Evelyn.