Following a recent spate of vandalism in our parks, Southern Downs Regional Council has decided to take action by purchasing two mobile security cameras to monitor Council’s parks where vandalism is occurring.
Kilpa Street Park has been targeted in the past twelve months with two attacks on rubbish bins and two attacks on the play equipment, resulting in replacement of bins and equipment. Each time something like this occurs, Council and ultimately the community, incurs the expense the fix the vandalism.
This often includes the callout after hours, cost of material, labour for replacement, not to mention the lost time as staff are taken away from other scheduled works. The loss of recreational opportunity for the community is also a huge factor of concern.
“Why should the community miss out on using playground equipment because of the actions of some irresponsible individuals?” said Michael Bell, Council’s Manager Parks and Major Projects.
“The aim of these cameras is to reduce vandalism and undesirable behaviour,” said Mr Bell. “As the cameras are small and mobile, we can move them around, with the applicable signage, to the desired locations,” he said.
As the cameras will be set up in public places (ie playgrounds), Council has consulted with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) prior to their placement. Images captured by the cameras would only be available for the QPS to view should they be required for use in their investigations. Images will be cleared without viewing unless required for evidence.
“Use of these cameras will ultimately lead to improved community safety around Council’s parks and ensure our Council assets are available for maximum usage,” Mr Bell said.
