UPDATE: Goulburn Mulwaree Council is set to enhance safety measures in Belmore Park by upgrading its outdated CCTV systems, following a unanimous motion led by Deputy Mayor Caitlin Flint. This decision comes after rising concerns from local residents and business owners about increasing vandalism and crime in the area.
During a council meeting held in December, Flint emphasized the urgent need for improved surveillance, citing community feedback collected during a ‘coffee with a councillor’ session in November. “Belmore Park should be a source of pride, not a place of fear after dark,” she stated. Reports of numerous crimes, including vandalism and drug activity, have prompted this immediate action.
The current CCTV equipment, installed about a decade ago, has been criticized for its poor visual quality and limited range, leaving significant blind spots. “Offenders are often aware of these gaps,” Flint noted, highlighting that the existing cameras do not effectively serve as a deterrent or investigative tool.
Flint mentioned that even local law enforcement has struggled to utilize the current footage due to its inadequacy, impacting their ability to respond to incidents effectively. In a notable incident, graffiti vandalism on the Vietnam War commemoration plaque in August drew attention to the park’s vulnerabilities. While police reviewed existing footage, they also appealed for additional private and dashcam video to aid their investigation.
The council plans to explore grant funding opportunities for modern CCTV systems with enhanced capabilities. Flint proposes that these upgraded cameras feature dual access for better cooperation with law enforcement agencies. A report detailing high-risk areas within the park will be presented to the council by June 2026.
Council member Dan Strickland, a member of the Community Safety Working Party, echoed support for the motion, acknowledging Belmore Park’s role within a larger network of surveillance cameras across the area. However, he also noted existing budget constraints for maintenance.
“This is just the beginning of the conversation,” Flint said, stressing the importance of preventive measures over reactive ones. If grant funding is not secured, she plans to propose that the council allocate resources for the necessary upgrades.
The community eagerly awaits these developments as Goulburn Mulwaree Council takes steps to ensure public safety in one of its most cherished spaces. As officials work towards a solution, residents hope for a swift resolution to the challenges facing Belmore Park.
