Neighbourhood Watch in
Ku-ring-gai and Hornsby
eNewsletter #558 - 21 June 2022
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This weekly eNewsletter is compiled by Neighbourhood Watch volunteers as a service for residents in Ku-ring-gai and Hornsby council areas. The eNewsletter is a new type of Neighbourhood Watch; utilising the available technology to keep people more connected and up-to-date with local crime and safety issues.
The eNewsletter includes a selection of posts from our local police at the Ku-ring-gai PAC Facebook page (also known as 'eyewatch'), primarily for those not familiar with Facebook. We add anything interesting from a Neighbourhood Watch point-of-view - this could be a local newspaper article, a roadwork warning, crime prevention tip(s), an upcoming Neighbourhood Watch meeting, Q&As from residents, or an item from another Police command ("Crooks know no boundaries!").
🚓 Have you seen anything we should share with the community? Please email our NHW in Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby volunteers. We do value your contributions and thank you for your support.
🚓 Please feel free to share/forward this eNewsletter with your friends, family, colleagues and neighbours.
🚓 Reading our eNewsletter for the first time? Click here to subscribe.
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21 June, from the Hornsby Shire Historical Society: A fascinating read and a little more of our local history.
135 years to this day the 21st June 1887, 6 people died after a runaway train travelling from Hornsby to the Hawkesbury river Station crashed at the Station. Had it not been for the heroic actions of a porter, Patrick Proctor, the tragedy may well have been much worse.
Full story here. (Facebook login may be required?)
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21 June, from KU-ring-gai command: Police are appealing for any witnesses to a single motorcycle collision on Old Pacific Hwy, approximately 800m Nth of Pie in the Sky Café, on Sunday 5/06/2022 at 1:30pm.
The motorcycle involved was an older model yellow sports bike, and the rider was wearing black leathers. A number of people were at the scene assisting the rider after the collision. If any person has information regarding the incident and the minutes leading up to the collision, police are requesting you contact Brisbane Waters Police Area Command on 4323 5599 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, quoting event number E91435086.
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17 June, from Ku-ring-gai command: During a police operation earlier this week, Kuring Gai Police came across a truck with wigs, suspected of being stolen, being loaded into it.
After speaking with the males, and realising they were the persons of interest police had been looking for, for numerous break and enters, they were arrested, and the truck seized. Detectives were called in and are now combing the area for evidence.
Have a great weekend
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Please remember that if you see or hear something suspicious, report it to us as quickly as possible. It is often the timeliness of a report to us that gives us the best chance of catching the offender.
HOW TO CONTACT POLICE:
“000” Triple Zero for emergency or life-threatening situations
“131444” Police Assistance Line (PAL) for non-emergencies
“1800 333 000” Crime Stoppers – to provide crime information
Hornsby Police 9476 9799
Gordon Police 9418 5399
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17 June, from Ku-ring-gai command: Shoplifting – It is stealing!
A shoplifting operation was conducted last night where we worked with the Loss Prevention Officers from various organisations at Hornsby Westfield, resulting in seven arrests, five infringements and two youths cautioned.
NSW figures for shoplifting from April 2021 to March 2022 claim 17,524 incidents with the losses eventually being absorbed by the consumer in higher prices.
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16 June, from NSW Police Force: LOCK IT OR LOSE IT.
It's worth the couple of extra seconds to ensure your vehicle is locked.
Stop car thefts before they happen.
Don't leave garage remotes in your car - try keeping it on your keyring instead so you can keep an eye on it at all times. #lockitorloseit
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16 June, from Ku-ring-gai command: Is it illegal to carry a knife or blade in NSW?
Possessing a knife or blade in a public place is an offence under section 11C of the Summary Offences Act 1988 which carries a maximum penalty of 2 years in prison and/or a fine of $2,200. A person is not guilty of the offence if he or she is able to establish a ‘reasonable excuse’ for possessing the knife, for example:
- 1. the lawful pursuit of the person’s occupation, education or training,
- 2. the preparation or consumption of food or drink,
- 3. participation in a lawful entertainment, recreation or sport,
- 4. the exhibition of knives for retail or other trade purposes,
- 5. an organised exhibition by knife collectors,
- 6. the wearing of an official uniform, or
- 7. genuine religious purposes.
A reasonable excuse DOES NOT include carrying the knife for self-defence or the defence of another person.
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16 June, from Ku-ring-gai command: An electric scooter has come into the possession of police, who are attempting to find the lawful owner.
If you have lost one or had one stolen, please contact Hornsby Police on 9476 9799 and provide police with a detailed description of the scooter and we will return it to you. Refer to Event number E 87319610.
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16 June, from Ku-ring-gai command: Were you woken by a loud motor bike in the early hours of Monday morning?
Do you have CCTV cameras or Dashcam? Police are seeking any Dash Cam footage or CCTV footage along Quarter Sessions Rd and Duffy Ave between 3am and 4am on Monday 13 June 2022 that may assist in identifying a vehicle of interest linked to a break and enter in the area.
Vehicle of interest include a motor bike and possibly another motor vehicle. Police are requesting you to view your footage, captured between the hours of 3am and 4am on Monday 13 June 2022 and to report any suspicious activity to Hornsby Police on 9476 9799 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 with reference to Event number E88762832.
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15 June, from Ku-ring-gai command: To our Waitara and Hornsby unit residents
Please be vigilant as we've had a few break and enters this last week where the criminal has gained access through sliding doors on ground and first floor balconies.
- * Keep windows and doors locked at night
- * Lock not only the screen door but the main sliding door as well
- * If you see or hear something suspicious, please call us at the time
Please call us at the time, or as close to the time of the incident as this gives police the best chance to engage any suspicious persons.
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15 June, from Ku-ring-gai command: 15th June 2022 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
Did you know that two thirds of older people don't seek help when they are abused? Elder abuse often remains hidden, with the most frequent action taken to stop the abuse involving the victim is them speaking directly to the abuser. Perpetrators of elder abuse are often family members, mostly adult children, but they can also be friends, neighbour's and acquaintances.
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21 June, from NHW Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby: We received the following request from a resident:
Re: Intersection of Amaroo Ave and Pacific Highway, Mt Colah
Good morning, was just wondering if an article could be put in the NHW eNewsletter about the above intersection and the correct road rules regarding the waiting lanes. The amount of road rage incidents I have witnessed is ridiculous. Perhaps a friendly reminder might be of use?
Resident of area, thanks.
Hi, Concern is coming out of Amaroo and heading south, However, the whole intersection needs to be looked at with the bakery and 2 preschools, dangerous.
Our response:
We looked at the intersection, researched the problems and also asked the advice from the local Traffic Officer at Hornsby police station.
The waiting lanes that were mentioned aren’t marked on the Amaroo road. Amaroo is a locally maintained road, looked after by Hornsby Shire council. Maybe you could request that painted lane markings showing two lanes could be considered at the exit of Amaroo – one lane for left turn only, and one lane for right turn only? We are not sure whether the road is wide enough. It would also possibly require local traffic signs explaining the lanes.
Any changes requested usually require vehicle and crash statistics to justify any change before anything will be done. The process is known to be slow.
Address an email to the Hornsby Council Local Traffic Committee (LTC), outlining your concerns, and suggesting a solution to the issue that you would be happy with.
(The NSW Government and Transport for NSW are responsible for the Pacific Highway.)
Information about the Local Traffic Committee can be found here.
“The purpose of the LTC is to provide technical advice on traffic control matters on local roads to Council. That advice must be taken into consideration before Council chooses to exercise its delegation to control traffic on local roads. Where Council proposes to exercise that delegation, a report is prepared and considered by the members of the LTC.
Under the terms of the RMS delegation the Committee has no decision making powers and no jurisdiction on state roads or selected facilities such as speed limits, signalised intersections or marked foot crossings.”
Contact info for Hornsby Shire Council:
t 02 9847 6666
f 02 9847 6999
e hsc@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Merging: Road Rules Handbook page 132 here. Changing lanes when a lane ends
When the lane you’re driving in is ending and you need to cross a broken line to move into another lane, you must give way to vehicles already in that lane – for example, when you’re joining a motorway. Slow down and look for a suitable gap so you can change lanes safely. If a vehicle is moving into your lane, you should leave a suitable gap. When a car is crossing a broken line to change into another lane (Car A), it must give way to vehicles already in that lane (Car B).
Road Rage: Road Rules Handbook page 70 Sharing with other road users
Everyone who uses the roads to drive, ride or walk has a responsibility to share the road with others. Be aware of who you’re sharing the road with and how you can take care around them. Allow enough time to stop safely for pedestrians. Give other vehicles enough room to stop and turn. Keep an eye out for bicycle and motorcycle riders.
If somebody does something that startles you, or is aggressive, stay calm. You must not respond in a threatening or aggressive manner. This kind of behaviour, often called ‘road rage’, is dangerous and illegal. By respecting other road users, you can help make the roads safer for everyone
Good article 'What's driving road rage?' from NRMA with advice here.
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21 June, from NSW Health: Vapes can contain the same harmful chemicals found in weedkiller, nail polish remover, bug spray and cleaning products.
They just don't put it on the pack. The take-up of vaping by young people is increasing. Research shows that 1 in 3 young people 16 – 24 years have vaped. The ‘Do you know what you’re vaping?’ campaign is aimed at young people aged 14-17 years who should not be vaping or smoking. Vapes are not safe. Do you know what they’re vaping?
Get the evidence and facts about vaping here.
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FAQ #26: WHAT IS A BITUMEN BANDIT?
Neighbourhood Watch Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby has researched several new Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to upload to our website. This one advises about 'Bitumen Bandits'. More to come in the next few weeks...
Have you a question that we could answer? Let us share it with the community. Please email us at: NHWKuringgaiHornsby@gmail.com
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21 June, from Alister Henskens MP: Having the skills to recognise and respond to cases of domestic and family violence is important.
Gordon Police Station at Park Avenue, Gordon will host domestic and family violence workshops this month for community leaders, volunteers and professionals in our local Chinese community.
Register for the free workshops at www.eventbrite.com.au/e/2022-tickets-358154378387.
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20 June, from Crime Stoppers NSW: 10 MOST MISUNDERSTOOD ROAD RULES – #5 KEEPING LEFT
On multi-lane roads with a speed limit of more than 80km/h, motorists must not drive in the right-hand lane unless they are:
 overtaking- turning right or making a U-turn
- avoiding an obstacle
- driving in congested traffic
- driving in a special purpose lane or if there is a Left Lane Must Turn Left sign or a left traffic arrow and the driver is not turning left.
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20 June, from the Australian Federal Police (AFP): The AFP-led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) is warning that Australia is seeing a global trend in the crime of sexual extortion, with a spike in the number of Australian boys being preyed on by international sex offenders.
These offenders are grooming minors into producing explicit images and then extorting them for money. Tactics can vary, but child sex offenders commonly pose as girls and befriend boys via social media platforms, image-sharing apps or online games. Once the pair connected, the ‘girl’ would request they communicate privately and engage in sexualised conversations before sending explicit images of her fake self, often sourced from a victim of previous offending. The boy would then be asked to send nude images or videos in return.
More here.
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20 June, from 5minutecrafts: How to Sit Correctly in the Car
Many people drive a car without paying much attention to how they sit while steering. However, experts say that incorrect driving posture can cause an increase in discomfort in the neck, back, and other parts of the body and lead to chronic pain.
- Adjust the seat height
- Fix your seat and foot position.
- Get the right seat back angle.
- Adjust the lumbar support.
- Set your headrest
Full article here
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19 June, Shared with permission from the Thornleigh, Westleigh and Normanhurst Community group:
I am shocked (and maybe a bit peeved). Someone scratched my brand new car at the Westleigh Shopping Centre (yup second time in 5 months), left a large scratch and didn't even bother to leave a sorry note. This may have happened during the rains 'cos I didn't notice it till the car got washed yesterday! Please have some courtesy, guys. It's not fair that I have to pay every time you guys don't drive to the rules! If you know who you are you can message me directly. Grey Subaru Impreza is my car.
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19 June, from 9Now.nine.com.au: A strong warning and some good advice
Please be aware that scams like these are our command's biggest problem.
Cybercrime expert reveals how to spot a scam after Aussies get 'duped'
Full article and video here.
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15 June, from 9news.com.au: Mechanic pulls truck driver from cabin as vehicle catches fire
A Sydney mechanic has come to the rescue of a truck driver who didn't realise his wheels had caught fire. Jon Hutchen, from Taren Point in the city's south, noticed the problem as he drove along the M1 Motorway at Berowra on Tuesday afternoon. Hutchen immediately pulled over and grabbed the driver from the cabin.
Full article here.
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Dates for the Diary
Wednesday 22 June & Wednesday 29 June: FREE To End Domestic & Family Violence in Chines Community workshops. 9am-3pm @ Gordon police station. Bookings. Jian 0413963304. Fiona 0412477535.
Thursday 23 June: 6:30-8:00pm. FREE Learner Driver workshop online event for supervisors/parents/carers - How to help learner drivers become safer drivers. Registrations close Thur 16 June. Info: 9424 0843.
July: Neighbourhood Watch Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby 'All Areas' meeting #34 @ 6pm online or at PCYC tbc
Sunday 28 August: Woodchop Festival Berowra, Warrina Street Oval 10am. NHW crime prevention stall? tbc
Sunday 04 - Saturday 10 September: National Child Protection week
Thursday 08 September: RUOK Day
Sunday 18 September: Bobbin Head Classic charity bike ride
Sunday 25 September: St Ives Food & Wine Festival 10am - NHW crime prevention stall? tbc
Wednesday 05 October: International Coffee with a Cop Day.
November: Neighbourhood Watch Week.
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20 June, from Crime Stoppers NSW: Losing your licence can be a hassle and a worry as you cannot legally drive without a licence on your person and you may be worried that if it gets into the wrong hands, it could be used for identity theft.
There are some things you can do:
- 1. Call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 (24/7) to report your licence lost or stolen. You will be given an Police Event Number.
- 2. Order a replacement drivers licence online through Services NSW here.
- 3. Contact ID Care who will respond to many types of identity and cyber security concerns including your lost or stolen credentials.
- 4. Download your digital copy of your drivers licence through the Services NSW app on your smart phone.
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From NHW in Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby: 'Our 20 Favourite Crime Prevention Tips for Pedestrians'
Tip #2. CONSIDER WHAT YOU WEAR – dark colours may not be seen by drivers. Wear bright, lighter-coloured clothing when walking from dusk onwards or in reduced visibility conditions. Just because you can see a car (or their lights) doesn’t mean the driver can see you, or will stop for you. The driver may have different priorities than you today. Or their vision may be affected by the sun. Consider reflective clothing and/or shoes with reflective strips. It is possible to buy reflective strips and armbands.
Tip #3. PUT AWAY YOUR PHONE. Unplug your earphones. Give all senses to the job of keeping you safe. Concentrate whilst you are on that road. Pause any involved conversations with those near you. 100% concentration please!
Tip #18. AVOID WALKING ON THE ROAD. Use a nature strip, or footpath if available. If you must use the road, walk FACING the oncoming traffic, and as close to the side of the road as possible.
Tip #19. AT NIGHT USE A TORCH. Try and keep it pointing down and away from drivers, so as not to blind them.
For more tips and translations, look at our website 'Tips' page here. Or try our WatchOut! website here, for links to some great information available on the internet. Or request a copy in your inbox here.
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Thank you to Emergency Services Humour
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IMPORTANT CONTACTS & LINKS
Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance): 000
TTY: 106
NSW Police - Ku-ring-gai Police Area Command (PAC): 9476 9799
Hornsby Police Station, 292 Peats Ferry Road, Hornsby 2077
Local Police Facebook page: @Kuring Gai PAC
Non-emergency two-way communication
Police Assistance Line (PAL): 131 444
For non-urgent minor crime.
NSW Police Community Portal
Online reporting of non-emergency minor crime: lost property, intentional damage, graffiti or theft.
Interpreting & Translating Services: 131 450
NSW Police - website for crime prevention advice
Never be afraid or embarrassed to report a crime, concern or fear you have to the Police. The Police are here to help you.
Crime Stoppers NSW: 1800 333 000
Report crime anonymously
Report suspicious activity ASAP
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