Queensland Police Service (QPS) is helping landowners to safeguard their properties against rural crime as part of a new crime prevention initiative launched today in the Darling Downs.
Shut the Gate on Rural Crime is a campaign designed to address the unique challenges of rural crime through targeted educational resources and a regional roadshow, where landowners can meet with QPS officers.
As part of the campaign, a dedicated Rural Crime Prevention webpage has been developed, featuring a suite of downloadable resources including security brochures detailing ways to deter fuel tank, livestock and machinery thefts.
It also includes a property marking checklist, crime prevention handbook and a factsheet for reporting suspicious activity.
Throughout May, the QPS Rural and Stock Crime Squad in partnership with local officers, will host a series of roadshow events across the region, where people can come and ask clarifying questions about their home security.
These events will provide practical information on farm security, trespassing and landholder rights, crime scenes and evidence, and reporting rural crime.
Residents are invited to attend the free community events, held from 5:30pm - 7:30pm in the following locations:
- Oakey RSL, May 15
- Laidley Bowls Club, May 26
- Pittsworth Function Centre, May 27
Registrations can be made here: Road Show Registration
Darling Downs Acting Superintendent Scott Stahlhut acknowledged the impacts of criminal activity in rural areas and encouraged residents to adopt proactive measures to secure their properties.
"There are effective steps our rural communities can take to ensure their property is secure, which can significantly reduce the risk of theft," Acting Superintendent Stahlhut said.
"Reporting crime and suspicious activity not only assists in ongoing investigations, it helps police identify trends."
"This initiative is designed to empower landowners with practical tools and knowledge to safeguard their properties, while also fostering strong connections between rural communities and local police."
Detective Inspector Jim Lacey, Operations Manager of Rural and Stock Crime Squad, emphasised that collaboration is key to maintaining safer rural areas.
"When landholders, communities and police work together, we create stronger networks that help prevent crime and strengthen our ability to protect rural communities," Detective Inspector Lacey said.
"Through this initiative, we're committed to ensuring that landholders feel informed, supported, and confident in safeguarding their properties."
The QPS is committed to partnering with rural communities to prevent crime and ensure that those who live and work in these areas feel safe and supported.
To learn more about the initiative and access valuable rural crime prevention resources, visit www.police.qld.gov.au/RuralCrimePrevention
Together, let's 'shut the gate' on rural crime.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
