PORT Stephens Council has been awarded $5300 from the NSW Government as part of their statewide Safer Community Compact grant program designed to help councils to deliver grassroot solutions to crime.

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Portable lock boxes have officially been introduced in popular holiday locations in the Port Stephens Council area including Nelson Bay, Anna bay and Raymond Terrace.

The lock boxes can be hired out at Port Stephens Council chambers in Raymond Terrace, Nelson Bay Visitors Centre and all council owned holiday parks.

Last year in the Port Stephens area, there were 415 reported steal from motor vehicle incidents, 248 steal from dwelling offences and 15 steal from person crimes.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald said, “This project is designed to help car owners and tourists to take steps to reduce the risk of their belongings being stolen.”

“Beach goers will be able to store their keys in the secure boxes so they can enjoy a worry-free swim.”

Port Stephens Local Area Command are backing the scheme, taking charge of the project with Council staff, and personally delivering all the new lock boxes to their new homes, ready for hire.

Crime Prevention Officer Alison Stewart told News of the Area, “Lock boxes are a great initiative to help reduce the instance of theft in the Port Stephens area.”

Wayne Wallis, Port Stephens Council General Manager said, “I want every person in Port Stephens to feel safe in our community and that their families and property are protected.”

I am incredibly grateful for this funding which will support Council’s efforts to empower the community to understand the precautions they can take to safeguard against theft,” he said.

Council also will run a community awareness campaign for residents and tourists in the Port Stephens area to ensure they know what they can do to protect themselves from being robbed.

By Rachael VAUGHAN