Keep An Eye On Local Schools

With such unpredictable weather set to make its way across the Hinchinbrook Shire over the coming weeks, it’s important to stay vigilant, and report any damage to school properties to the Queensland Government’s School Watch Program.

During school holiday periods, the Queensland Government asks local communities to keep an eye on school grounds and “look, listen, report” to safeguard schools against property damage, or incidents of unlawful entry, arson, theft and graffiti.

If you see anything suspicious or concerning, don’t attempt to intervene. Instead, the Queensland Police Service and Queensland Department of Education advise residents to call the official School Watch number on 13 17 88. In an emergency, always dial 000.

Since the program launched in 2014, School Watch has been a vital part in keeping school communities free from harm across the state to ensure all students can come back to a welcoming and safe environment when the school year commences.

Former Police Minister, Mark Ryan, said local communities have an integral role to play in keeping school grounds safe.

“The Queensland Police Service relies on information from the public to combat all sorts of crime, and keeping our schools safe is no exception. A vigilant community means there are “eyes and ears” everywhere and provides invaluable support to our hardworking police,” Minister Ryan said.

“Our schools are precious places of learning and are too valuable to become the collateral damage of the senseless actions of a misguided minority.”