In brief
LOCAL police will be hitting the streets this weekend as they begin to implement the Safe Night Out Strategy.
Launched as a state-wide initiative in response to numerous ‘coward punch’ attacks and a growing binge drinking culture, the Safe Night Out Strategy aims to change the current culture and behaviour associated with drinking.
The Queensland Government pledged to provide police with the power and resources to respond quickly to alcohol and drug-related violence and anti-social behaviour.
Noosa Heads Officer in Charge Acting Senior Sergeant Dean Holmes said three precincts had been identified for the strategy: Noosa, Maroochydore and Mooloolaba.
Snr Sgt Holmes said local police will focus on Hastings Street, Noosa Parade and Noosa Junction, with a high police presence and quick response for any incidents.
“Staff from the Coolum station, the traffic branch and tactical response will all help implement the Safe Night Out program,” he said.
The strategy will start this weekend with police patrols hitting the streets Friday night.
New Wheels
There will be nowhere for criminals to hide thanks to Noosa police’s new four-wheel drive, all-terrain vehicle.
Delivered just last week, the 2014 Yamaha Viking 4×4 will be able to conquer the most difficult of Noosa terrain allowing police to extend their patrols and respond to emergencies in hard to reach places.
Noosa Heads Officer in Charge Acting Senior Sergeant Dean Holmes said the new vehicle would allow the police to better patrol North Shore, Main Beach and the Noosa National Park.
Snr Sgt Holmes said a number of officers had already been trained to drive the vehicle and there were more officers due to begin the course.
