Youth put safety first

By Esther Lauaki

Manor Lakes College students put crime reporting in the spotlight with a recent community safety project.

Year 8 students created videos and posters as part of Crime Stoppers Victoria’s Lights, Camera, Safety educational program.

The program, run by Crime Stoppers in conjunction with the school, Wyndham council and Victoria Police, aimed to teach young people techniques to prevent crime.

Teacher Jodie Peterson said the students learned valuable lessons through the program.

“They’ve been able to learn strategies for their own personal safety … and they learn ways to prevent crimes within their area,” she said.

Wyndham safer communities portfolio holder Kim McAliney said young people had been instrumental in the project.

“I hope this Wyndham initiative is the beginning of all local governments working in partnership with key agencies … on projects such as this,” Cr McAliney said.

“It’s about empowering and engaging young people.”

Crime Stoppers Victoria chief Stella Smith congratulated the students on their efforts.

“We know that young people want to make a difference and we want them to play a role in the safety of Wyndham.”