Banyule Neighbourhood Watch members recognised for 25 years of service

Banyule Neighbourhood Watch has been keeping the community safe for 35 years, with some of the most dedicated volunteers in the state. Now, 56 have been recognised for watching over our streets for the past few decades.

Banyule Neighbourhood Watch volunteers John Dowdle, Joan Reid, and John Clarke with Leading Senior Constable Alison Keppel and Banyule Inspector Anne Pattison. Picture: Josie Hayden

Banyule Neighbourhood Watch has celebrated 35 years of keeping the community safe.

A whopping 56 volunteers received long service awards for 25, 30 or 35 years with the group as part of the celebrations.

The group, which was founded by president John Dowdle in 1984 as the Heidelberg Neighbourhood Watch, is one of the state’s oldest and has grown to 500 members.

Working with the Banyule Police, it has fitted more than 350 cars with one way screws to curb licence plate theft, distributed more than 100,000 newsletters and promoted the use of personal safety alarms.

“It’s so great so many people are interested in the welfare of people who live in Banyule,” Mr Dowdle said.

Neighbourhood Watch Victoria first started in 1983 when residents asked the police how they could assist to lower the crime levels.

Victoria Police investigated overseas models of civilians helping the police and this led to the formation of Neighbourhood Watch.

MORE: GREENSBOROUGH SENIOR SERGEANT HONOURED WITH AWARD

MAIN DRIVE TO GET 23 NEW LIGHTS FOLLOWING COMMUNITY CALLS

BANYULE COUNCIL TRIALS RECYCLED ROAD REPAIRS

Banyule Senior Constable Alison Keppel also received an award.

To join, email [e-mail]

[e-mail]