Back on the Olinda beat

By Tania Martin
POLICE are back on the beat in Olinda after the town’s new police station was official opened last week.
Sergeant Tony Haining said it was fantastic to see the police station in the town after years of campaigning for it.
He said the old police station closed more than 11 years ago and residents have been fighting for a new one to built ever since.
But now the wait is over and the police are back in town.
“It was a huge challenge but one that has been worth the wait,” Sgt Haining said.
“It is thanks to the community that we have this station – they never lost hope that the police station would return.”
The new $75,000 police station was funded in the 2005-06 State Budget and many local people feel it has been well overdue.
Victoria Police Acting Assistant Commission Steven Fontana said the police station opening has been a long-waited project for many Olinda people.
He said the idea of a new station in the township was first mooted in 2004 and now residents and police have a fantastic new station to call their own
“I am confident that this new station will become a source of pride and admiration, not only to Victoria Police but also to the local community,” he said.
Police and Emergency Services Minister Bob Cameron said the station would make a valuable contribution to community safety in the hills.
Mr Cameron said the new station features an interview room, holding cell, watch-house, muster room, administration offices, lock-up garage and wheelchair access.
He said crime in the Yarra Ranges last year deceased by 8.9 per cent and with the addition of the Olinda Police Station expects to see the figures decrease further.
Mr Cameron said Olinda was one of 148 bases being built or significantly refurbished as part of Victoria’s biggest ever police construction program.
“This commitment has helped make Victoria a safer place to be,” he said.
Monbulk MP James Merlino said the opening of the station was welcome news to both residents and police.
“People choose to live in Olinda because it’s a safe place and there is a strong sense of community. The police presence will ensure this remains so,” he said.
“The low crime rate is thanks to the community and police working together.”
“I’m confident the new police station will help continue this trend by providing a modern and profession working environment for all local officers.”
Not only do Olinda Police have a new home but they also have a new and increased area to cover, which includes Kalorama, Sassafras, Mt Dandenong, Olinda, Ferny Creek and Tremont.