All play role in curbing crime

The Delacombe Community Walking School Bus – known by local children as the Magic School Bus – ensures local children to school on time and safely.

Starting with five and growing to 20 children, the Walking School Bus is run by local volunteers, operating every school day, rain, hail or shine.

The project received the top gong which acknowledges the work the group does to improve safety in the community. 

Salvation Army employee Fiona White, who helped start the project with the help of school teachers, said the project was established in term two this year.

“The idea of the project was to support families getting their children to school on time,” Ms White said.

“They are picked up at their house – we come around with a bell.”

The program also ensures children are regularly engaged in vital education – which in turn will reduce the likelihood of the children disengaging from educating and potentially falling into crime. 

“It is vital to ensure children attend school earlier on,” Ms White said. 

Mayor Des Hudson praised the group for its initiative and leadership. 

“When you look at the award recipients it really demonstrates that community safety is a shared responsibility. (The bus volunteers) have worked together for an initiative that promote health and well being.

“Community based organisations are really picking up the mantle and showing that community is vital in reducing crime.”

Cr Hudson said research showed youth engagement was fundamental in ensuring young children remained in the education system and contributed to the community in a positive way.  

“Crime prevention is not an issue that just rests with Victoria Police, it really is up to the community and what the community wants starts at their front door,” Cr Hudson said.

“That means reporting something if they see something is wrong, being a champion for creating a neighbourhood.” 

Ballarat Inspector Bruce Thomas said the community played a vital role in promoting safety and engagement.

“Victoria Police can’t do it all by itself. Council can’t do it all by itself.”