Police visit Splash Aquatic Centre in Craigieburn to reassure community

Police have returned to a Craigieburn aquatic centre to reassure the community just a month after an incident that saw 15 swimmers banned for “unruly” behaviour. And they have vowed to continue patrols over the warmer months.

Constable Andrew Titta with twins George and Leonidas having fun at Splash Aqua Park. Picture: George Salpigtidis

Police have returned to a Craigieburn aquatic centre to reassure the community just a month after an incident that saw 15 swimmers banned for “unruly” behaviour.

Officers visited Splash Aquatic and Leisure Centre on Wednesday morning to speak to staff and patrons and reassure the community.

Hume Council confirmed 15 people had been banned from entering the centre following a fight broke out on October 31, which forced staff to close the facility an hour early.

Acting Sergeant Rebecca Amiridis said police would be conducting a number of foot patrols at Splash over the summer period.

Acting Sergeant Rebecca Amiridis gets ‘locked up’ by Ari, 4, outside Splash in Craigieburn. Picture: George Salpigtidis

“There were obviously some concerns in relation to an affray that occurred around a month ago with a whole bunch of youths,” she said.

“We thought it would be a good idea to reassure the community that Splash is a great place and we’re here to look after them.

“We want to make sure that everyone can go there, as with anywhere in Craigieburn and surrounds and have a good time, enjoy their time and be safe with family and friends.”

Sgt Amiridis said swimmers caught causing trouble would be dealt with appropriately under the law.

Senior Constable Andrew Bosco with local kids George, Leonidas, Leezyl, Zane and Acting Sergeant Rebecca Amiridis at Splash Aqua Park and Leisure Centre. Picture: George Salpigtidis

Acting Sergeant Rebecca Amiridis and Senior Constable Andrew Bosco with Ari, 4, outside the Aqua Park. Picture: George Salpigtidis

She said officers would also be conducting road and foot patrols and community interaction events at other venues over the summer to ensure a visible police presence across the region.

Sgt Amiridis said officers were approachable and people could speak to them about anything, whether it’s reporting a crime or just a general interaction.

Hume Mayor Carly Moore. Picture: Ellen Smith

Splash Aquatic and Leisure Centre in Craigieburn. Picture: Facebook

“This time of year we’ve got families ourselves where they’re on holidays that we’re leaving to come and protect members of the community … and that positive interaction, as much as it is for them, it’s a boost for us and something we look forward to,” she said.

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“Our attendance at Splash provides an opportunity for the community to discuss local issues and generally interact with police in a more informal setting.”

She said police would also hold a Coffee with a Cop day at Splash in the new year.

Hume Mayor Carly Moore said the council was working with police to assure the community Splash was a centre that promoted family values.

“Splash is a community centre for people of all ages to enjoy safely and we simply will not tolerate any disrespectful behaviour,” she said.

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