In 2023, 502 new positions were made available in the Victorian Police Force and nine of those were allocated to Lakes Entrance Police, which is an increase of 60 per cent in staffing.
The additional positions are now rolling out and over the past two months the Lakes Entrance station has welcomed four new members, Constables Nathan Mesta, Simone Howell, Alison Lipski and Samuel O’Shea.
“They are very welcome additions, who are living locally and connecting with the community through sport and local organisations, which we promote,” Senior Sergeant Wayne Rothwell from Lakes Entrance Police Station said.
The station is still recruiting for the remaining five positions and once they are filled the idea will be to increase the reception opening hours. Currently the reception is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 5pm, but once all positions are filled it is anticipated it could be open seven days a week.
Senior Sergeant Rothwell emphasised that regardless of whether the station reception is closed there is still a 24/7 police response in town.
“There is always someone available, if the reception is closed there is the option of the intercom at the front door which connects to the Bairnsdale Police Station. For non-urgent enquiries call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or for police attendance dial 000,” he said.
“With extra staff there will be the opportunity for more neighbourhood policing shifts including dedicated high visibility policing on foot, on bikes and traffic patrols. They will be able to focus on emerging issues impacting community. There will be the capacity for extra response vehicles on weekends and unmarked vehicle and plain clothes operations.
“It is a fantastic outcome and will see significant benefits. We are waiting for all positions to be filled but the recruitment process can be lengthy.”
Senior Sergeant Rothwell encourages anyone interested in joining Victoria Police to contact or drop into the station.
“We encourage people to apply, even mature age or those working in other industries. “We have for example engineers, chefs and builders who have come on board and all bring something with them.
“These days there is the opportunity, after training and graduation, to work close to home in country areas,” he said.
