Several residents of some western suburbs in Melbourne are living in a state of fear due to repeated incidents of violence and crime in these areas. A community safety meeting was organised in Tarneit on Saturday which was attended by nearly 200 residents who were keen to hear safety information to make neighbourhoods safer.
Ron Fenton, a former police officer and respected community member, provided key tips to ensure safety in and around homes. James Hohepa Smith, the chairperson of the Victorian Maori Wardens, provided insight into to their role in protecting the community. Lee Makiri represented the newly formed Tarneit neighbourhood watch and spoke about the importance of the neighbourhood watch. 
Sushanthi Kuruwita provided insight from her perspective in setting up the Point Cook neighbourhood watch. Ritesh Chugh, senior lecturer from CQUniversity, performed a marvellous job as the moderator for the event and directed questions very gracefully.
Source: Supplied
Source: Supplied
The need for CCTVs in black spots and lighting in public areas was also identified. Stricter laws for teenage offenders were also prominent amongst the items raised at the meeting.
Rishi Prabhakar who organised this meeting said that the meeting was a step in the right direction, a much needed initiative to make the local community safer. He said it was also clear that residents want to help each other and are keen to work with the community to reduce crime and instil a spirit of safety back in Wyndham.
