Victoria Police hosted a public information night in Violet Town recently to encourage rural residents to be security-conscious.
About 100 people attended the night, including a number of farmers.
Farm Crime Liaison Officer Senior Constable Elisa Basse from Seymour said up to 50 per cent of rural crime went unreported and she said the first step in addressing the issue was receiving strong reports of crime or suspicious behaviour.
She urged anyone seeing suspicious behaviour or suspecting criminal behaviour to phone Triple 000, and for non-urgent cases or anyone wanting information to call the Police Advice Line on 131 444.
“It was a good turn-out at Violet Town. We wanted to get the message out to people. And to keep an eye out for neighbours.”
The questions raised at Violet Town included topics such as responding to people trespassing on private property, how to respond to over-flights by drone aircraft and identification of livestock.
Victoria Police is working with the VFF in raising awareness of rural crime.
Senior Constable Basse offered some advice to people living in rural and farming communities.
How farmers can protect their home and property:?Consider security of equipment and tools when erecting new buildings;?Where possible, construct storage facilities within sight of the main residence;?Install sensor lights;?Inform trusted neighbours when you are away for any length of time;?Display crime prevention signage;?Install CCTV.Farm machinery, firearms and equipment?Ensure all firearms are securely stored in accordance with regulations?Secure tools to prevent thieves being able to use them to gain access;?Make a detailed inventory of your machinery and equipment;?Engrave or mark equipment;?Never leave keys to vehicles or machinery in the ignition;?Ensure chemicals and fertilisers are stored in their original containers and secured?Keep invoices and receipts;?Ensure equipment, tools and locked firearm receptacles can’t be viewed from outside, through doors and windows;?Do not discuss items owned, or secured locations with anyone;?Check firearms and tools regularly, to make sure nothing is missing;Keep the livestock and stockyard safe?Ensure all stock are identified at an early age;?Consider photography and videoing your livestock regularly?Keep receipts/ records of any purchase;?Keep track of any agisted stock and their markings;?Check stock numbers regularly, especially those out of view from the homestead;?Ensure your fencing is secure and external gates have locks;?Secure loading ramps and stockyards at remote locations;?Encourage strong relationships with local police and Farm Crime Liaison Officers and report suspicious activity.
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