By JESSE GRAHAM
EMERALD Police moved into their new headquarters yesterday, following the opening of a brand-new, multi-million dollar station.
Officers moved into the new station, which lies just outside of Emerald’s main shopping strip on Belgrave-Gembrook Road, on Tuesday 5 March.
The updated station has a myriad of features that separate the new building from the old, according to Victoria Police Superintendent Russell Barrett.
Supt Barrett said the all-ability access to the building, secure car parks and presence in Emerald’s main road would give police a “21st century working environment”.
“It’s good for us, and it’s good for the community,” he said.
“There’s a lot more confidence if they (residents) can actually see it and it reassures them that there’s a strong police presence here.”
The new station features a muster room, public consultation room, interview rooms and the latest in police equipment. The reception area also pays homage to the local area, with a mural of Puffing Billy behind the front desk.
Supt Barrett joined Emerald Police Sergeant Fiona Tolmie, Cardinia Police Service Area (PSA) Inspector Rob Wallace and Gembrook MP Brad Battin for the first day of operations.
Sgt Tolmie said the new station was “wonderful” and would enhance the ability of local police to fight crime.
The former station, based on Kilvington Drive, had been open since 1991, and will be put on the market in the next 12 months, provided no other government department wants use of the building.
Police officers have a variety of amenities available at the new station, including a mess room and a gymnasium for staff to stay fit.
Mr Battin said the new station had better access for police officers, with secure car parks and public access for people of all abilities.
He said the real benefit of the station lies in the fact that it was purpose-built for the area and its needs when it comes to policing.
The new police station is located at 386-390 Belgrave-Gembrook Road, Emerald.
For more information, call Emerald Police on 5954 0200.
