Neighbourhood Watch News Forum

Following a number of incidents in Noosa waters I have sought advice from Noosa Police about what action can be taken in our Neighbourhood Watch area against gangs of teenagers (school age and above) creating serious harassment and distress to residents.

These gangs are intent on amusing themselves at the expense of residents, and incidents reported to me and experienced by me include throwing objects at cars, at garage doors, onto roofs, at birds and animals and onto driveways as well as random ringing of intercoms and doorbells. Garage doors have been damaged to the extent that they need replacement, in one case at the home of a disabled person.

The gangs are mobile on electric scooters and electric bikes and any attempt at negotiating improved behaviour is met with a stream of abuse and foul language. They are vindictive in targeting people who complain or show distress, with attacks at all hours ringing doorbells to get dogs barking and upset homeowners. It is recommended that residents do not engage with these gangs verbally or especially physically.

Our security patrols have recently been discontinued as being of little use as they admit they have no power to control misbehaving adolescents unless they wish to "engage", which of course they do not.

You may have noticed in recent news reports that Police are targeting anti-social behaviour by young people on the Sunshine Coast during operation Xray Sorcerer and we wish them every success. 

What police have recommended is forwarding any information and film or photos to Policelink via www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting and if there is an actual crime contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

If there is imminent physical danger or a crime in progress of course triple zero 000 is the correct option.

The weight of numbers of these reports and perhaps communicating these issues to our local member Sandy Bolton will hopefully get the attention of the authorities. 

John Reid   

Area Coordinator Noosa Waters Neighbourhood Watch