Neighbourhood Watch in
Ku-ring-gai and Hornsby
eNewsletter #542 - 01 March 2022
|
|
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.
|
|
27 February, from Channel 7 News/NSW Police: TRUCK CRASH CLOSES SECTION OF NORTH CONNEX - BEECROFT
Time of incident: 24 Feb 2022 - 10:42 pm
A crash between two semi-trailer trucks has caused a large amount of diesel to inundate a section of the North Connex Tunnel overnight.
Hazmat specialists used road absorbents to remove 2000L of Diesel from the road when crews arrived at the northbound crash near Beecroft at approximately 10:40 pm last night. Sweeper trucks assisted in the removal of diesel which was spread across 400m of the tunnel's lanes whilst specialised suction trucks retrieved the diesel from the retention pits. One driver was transported to hospital by NSW Ambulance. The northbound tunnel was closed during the operation to render the area safe for motorists. Acting Superintendent Mathew Sigmund from Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) said this is a timely reminder that calling Triple Zero (000) when you are involved in or see a crash can be the difference between life and death.
The Triple Zero (000) service is the quickest way to get the right resources from emergency services to help you. It should be used to contact Police, Fire or Ambulance services in life-threatening or time-critical situations.
|
|
27 February, from Ku-ring-gai command:  LANDSLIDE IN GALSTON GORGE
Photos from Hornsby Heights Rural Fire Brigade
At approximately 9.45pm last night, HHRFB, supported by NSW SES Hornsby Unit, responded to reports of a landslide at Galston Gorge. Crews worked to clear the debris from the road at one of the hairpin turns and to ensure the safety of the area for road users while the road remained closed. Road and traffic agencies, including RMS were on scene to assess the situation. HHRFB remained on scene to ensure safety of the location until approximately 12.30am. For latest updates on road closures, please refer to Live Traffic NSW for further information.
 DC Peter Washington, FF Peter English
For more information and regular updates:
 Visit the NSW Rural Fire Service web site www.rfs.nsw.gov.au- Call the Bush Fire Information Line 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737).
 Download the free smart device application ‘Fires Near Me NSW’
|
|
25 February, from Ku-ring-gai command: WEEK IN REVIEW:
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE:
17 x Domestic violence incidents
ADVO COMPLIANCE CHECKS:
12 x ADVO compliance checks
BREAK AND ENTER:
Wahroonga
SHOP LIFTING:
Hornsby - 11 x caught during a Hornsby Westfield shoplifting operation
ASSAULT:
Hornsby, Gordon, Mt Colah
TRAFFIC:
Wahroonga – Drug driving / unregistered vehicle
Waitara – Driver use mobile phone when not permitted
Hornsby – unlicenced / possess prohibited drug
Asquith – Positive roadside drug test
Pymble – Unregistered, unlicenced, positive roadside drug test
Normanhurst - Positive roadside drug test
Berowra - Positive roadside drug test
Killara – Fail to stop and exchange details after collision
Gordon - Fail to stop and exchange details after collision
MALICIOUS DAMAGE:
1 x Thornleigh
2 x St Ives
1 x Wahroonga
STEALING:
Wahroonga – Steal from letterbox
Hornsby – steal from motor vehicle
Gordon - Stolen motor vehicle
FIRE:
Asquith – electrical short
Pymble – Car fire
NEIGHBOUR DISPUTE:
South Turramurra, Warrawee
EXTORTION:
Berowra
FRAUD:
8 x reported fraud incidents throughout Command
|
|
23 February, from Ku-ring-gai command: **************************** UPDATE ***********************
Great news, a woman missing from Hornsby has been found a short distance from her home. She is well and has been reunited with her family. Thank you to all who kept an eye out for her.
|
|
23 February, from Hornsby Shire Council: CROSSLANDS RESERVE   | Crosslands Reserve on Somerville Rd, Hornsby Heights, is currently closed for public access, due to flooding.
Crosslands Reserve received damage due to the heavy rain yesterday, with flooding in the car park and throughout the park itself. Council staff are now working to clear the area.
For updates about Crosslands Reserve, follow us here on Facebook or go to https://www.hornsby.nsw.gov.au/crosslands
|
|
23 February, from Ku-ring-gai command: About 9.45am on Monday 7 February the Table top truck in this video left the scene of a fail to stop accident after hitting a parked silver Toyota Tarago on Duffy Avenue, Westleigh.
Police are urging anyone with information in relation to this accident and the Table top truck, to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or contact Hornsby Police Station on 9476 9799 and quote E 1107188190. We remind people they should not report crime information via our social media pages.
|
|
23 February, from Ku-ring-gai command: Safety tips for driving in the rain  
 Don’t drive through floodwaters for any reason. No matter what type of car you have, if you can’t see the roadway, don’t risk it.
Be aware of road conditions in your area and plan your trip accordingly. Check www.livetraffic.com, www.bom.gov.au, and www.ses.nsw.gov.au for the latest information.
Remember to give way at intersections where lights are out. Some intersections have backup signs, however, if they do not, always give way to your right.
Leave greater distances between you and the car in front because it takes longer to stop when its wet.
Drivers and motorcycle riders should use their headlights in heavy rain to be seen by other road users.
|
|
From Hornsby Shire Council: The Bushland Shire says ‘thank you’ to Shane Fitzsimmons | Publish date: 28 / 02 / 2022
Hornsby Shire Council has paid special tribute to the Head of Resilience NSW, Shane Fitzsimmons AO AFSM, unanimously endorsing a Mayoral Minute “acknowledging the invaluable contributions to the citizens of New South Wales and indeed the Nation” by the former Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS).
Full Media Release here.
|
|
01 February, from NSW Police: We’re currently experiencing a larger volume of Triple Zero (000) calls than usual.
 FOR FLOOD-RELATED ASSISTANCE
 Please call the NSW SES on 132 500, and save Triple Zero (000) for life-threatening emergencies only.
 Any other flood-related inquiries can be directed to the Public Information Inquiry Centre (PIIC) which is now operational. PIIC is a 24-hour resource providing up-to-date information regarding the flood emergency - 1800 227 228.
 People in flood affected areas are urged to also register their movements using the Register.Find.Reunite website – https://register.redcross.org.au/
 FOR NON-URGENT, MINOR CRIME
Report via the NSW Police Force Community Portal - https://portal.police.nsw.gov.au/
The public are reminded not to request assistance via social media channels.
|
|
01 February, from NSW Police: NSW Police remind people in flood affected areas to register their movements using the Register, Find, Reunite website – https://register.redcross.org.au/ - which is a National system managed and operated by Australian Red Cross.
It is a service which registers, finds and reunites family, friends and loved ones after an Emergency. It allows people to:
 Register to let people know they are safe- Find people who may be affected by an Emergency and know they are safe
- Reunite through a matching process which enables Police, with consent, to share details of family and friends with each other.
|
|
01 February, Shared with permission from the Pymble and West Pymble Community group (27 Feb):
The West Pymble Shops are requesting the assistance of the local community in locating a serial 'dumper' of bread crates. On a Friday evening or possibly over each weekend, someone is dumping hundreds of bread crates in front of the West Pymble Shops (on the pharmacy wall). Council has been notified and as soon as they are removed, they are replaced with more. This has been going on for nearly 6 months. They do not belong to the IGA, but rather someone who sees our community shops as a dumping ground. We are asking for the local community to please keep an eye out for anyone dumping bread crates over the weekend. Please report number plates and a description of the vehicle/s to Matthew at West Pymble Pharmacy OR Tony at the IGA. The offenders details will be provided to the Police and the Council.
|
|
Dates for the Diary
Sunday 06 March: Clean Up Australia Day
Saturday 19 March: FREE Rural e-waste drop off day 8am - 2pm @ Rural Sports Facility, 18-20 Bayfield Road, Galston (Entry via Mansfield Road, Galston) Info or phone 13 70 30.
Wednesday 23 March 2022: Ku-ring-gai Council's Everything for Seniors Day - NHW crime prevention stall.
Sunday 27 March: Bobbin Head Cycle Classic
|
|
28 February, Shared with permission from the Hornsby Heights Community group yesterday: Hi everyone.
Do you have a dash cam or CCTV in your home or were you on Frederick St? Tonight, between 8:15pm and 8:45pm, a beautiful and much-loved dog was hit by a car on Frederick St Hornsby. She passed away at the scene and the person who hit her did not stop to assist. If anyone was driving along there at that time and may have dash cam footage, or if you live on Frederick St and have CCTV (or a dash cam on a parked car that automatically detects movement) can you please send me a DM. Thank you to the people who found her and called to let us know. We are very grateful for what you did.
|
|
27 February, from Neighbourhood Watch Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby: Neighbourhood Watch was represented at the NSWPF Community & Safety Precinct Committee meeting that was held at Horsnby Police station last Wednesday 23 February 2022. [edited]
Thanks to Gay and Simon. Here are a few brief notes:
• Presentation of crime incidents and stats in the last 6 months in the command
- o Significant drop in crime figures compared to same period last year
- o First lot of lockdowns saw an increase in Assault (including DV), but came down in the second lot of lockdowns
- o Fraud and scam cost Australia in excess of $323 million in 2021. Romance scams were high.
- o Break & Enter, malicious damage, steal from motor vehicles, steal from retail, stolen vehicles, were lower than same period last year
- o Crime vs Powers were also lower
• The police have been busy nevertheless, concentrating on proactive measures, especially in DV, checking on ADVO, etc.
• The message is always the same – lock your house front and back doors, lock your cars, report crime to the police when it happens, not in social media, etc.
• Currently there are several probationary constables in Ku-ring-gai PAC, being given guidance and training
• Mental illness along with homelessness is a big issue, discussed by Link Housing, Cass Care and Catholic Care reps.
Notes/Minutes can be requested from us at NHWKuringgaiHornsby@gmail.com
|
|
25 February, from Crime Stoppers NSW: Been in a car accident and don’t know what to do?
After a car accident, you should stop immediately in a safe position away from traffic.
 Dial Triple Zero (000) for police or emergency services if: Anyone is injured or trapped- Police are needed to direct traffic or deal with hazards
- Any drivers appear affected by alcohol or other drugs
- A bus or truck needs to be towed away
- Anyone involved in the crash fails to exchange details
- If your car requires towing, organise your own tow truck through your insurance company or preferred provider and call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 (24/7) when you are away from the accident scene.
- Where noone is trapped or injured, no cars require towing, everyone can exchange details and nobody is affected by drugs or alcohol, you can just report the matter to your insurance company or make civil arrangements between you and the other driver.
|
|
25 February, Shared with permission from the Thornleigh, Westleigh and Normanhurst Community group yesterday (Thursday): Hi Community,
I thought it would be important to share that we had an attempted break in last night at about 8pm, where someone was going around our home and what sounded like trying all of our doors to get in. The police were called but by the time they arrived they couldn’t find anyone. Very scary being at home alone with my 2 young daughters. We are on Corang Road, Westleigh so just be aware and remember to lock all of your doors! 
|
|
24 February, from NHW Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby: Thank you to our volunteer Kanak, who has translated another one of our most popular handouts into HIndi, for upload to our website: 'Our 20 Favourite Crime Prevention Tips for Seniors'.
Thanks also go to Punam who proof read the final version. This and others in the '20 Tips' series can be found on our website at https://au-nhwkuringgaihornsby.org/tips/.
For your copy, or if you are proficient in a language, maybe you would like to help us out with translations? It all gets important messages out to more people in our community. Contact us at: NHWKuringgaiHornsby@gmail.com
 
|
|
24 February, from NHW in Glaston, Glenorie, Arcadia & Dural: Lock up your cars and valuables,
A resident on Post Office Rd just had a rude wake up from her mum after she watched a young adult scoping out her car and trying to get in the ute , trying each door. (Was thankfully locked up). After being woken up by her and running out I managed to get a quick look at the car the person left in, which looked to be a Subaru Impreza hatchback with p plates. Post Office Road Glenorie. A comment on the original post said he thought it might be a black car.
|
|
24 February, from the Australian Federal Police (AFP): As Australia’s international border re-opens to the world, so does opportunities for criminal activity, in particular money laundering.
Money laundering organisations and criminal syndicates exploit members of the community to act as money mules to move proceeds of crime on behalf of criminal groups. The mules do this via transactions through their personal bank accounts or by collecting cash and depositing it into banks on behalf of the syndicates. With passenger numbers increasing in airports, AFP investigators expect increased attempts to transport money illegally. Some mules may be unaware of the illegality of their actions however there are ways to protect yourself and others. If you think you are involved in a money mule scheme, stop transferring money immediately. Notify your bank or financial institution and report it to your State or Territory police.
|
|
23 February, from Northern Beaches command:
Too small to read? Email us for your copy: NHWKuringgaiHornsby@gmail.com
|
|
23 February, from Crime Stoppers NSW: 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗖𝗘𝗟 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗙𝗧:
With an increase in online shopping and deliveries, it’s important to take proactive measures to deter theft and protect belongings.
Here are 5 strategies to help you stop thieves and keep your deliveries safe:
 Home Security Devices: Installing outdoor cameras or a video doorbell can help deter thieves. If the incident still occurs you can submit the imagery to police for investigation and use it to prove that your package was stolen to the retailer. Adding a motion sensor light can also help to deter thieves who don’t want to be seen.- Ship to a secure location or click & collect: Australia Post now offers a range of ways to receive a parcel. A large number of sellers also offer services such as Parcel Point – which provides a network of local delivery, pick up and return locations all around Australia. Similarly most stores now offer Click & Collect services for online purchases.
 A parcel delivery box at the entryway is a great option for secure package delivery. They are usually tough, weather resistant and virtually tamper proof. Request Signature Confirmation of Delivery: If you know someone in your household will be home to answer the door, you can add signature confirmation of your delivery. Request packages be placed in a secure location: When you order something you may have the opportunity to add a delivery request. In this place you can note the package should be placed out of plain sight, such as behind a plant, or under porch stairs etc.
|
|
From NHW in Ku-ring-gai & Hornsby: 'Our 20 Favourite Crime Prevention Tips for '
- Tip #1: Identify your power tools using an engraver, available FOR LOAN from Neighbourhood Watch. Stolen power tools are easily bought and sold at garage and car boot sales.
- Tip #3: Do secure any dogs inside, or on the back of a ute. The prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 requires you to prevent the dog falling from the vehicle—or 6mths imprisonment! Please remember shade, air, water and deter any uncontrolled barking.
- Tip #7: SAY ‘HI’ TO NEIGHBOURS AROUND A BUILDING SITE OR JOB. They are the eyes and ears of the community.
- Tip #12: BEWARE BLOOD ALCOHOL LEVELS THE-MORNING-AFTER-THE-NIGHT-BEFORE. Does your work depend on your licence?
- Tip #17: KNOW THE LOCAL LAWS FOR THE STORAGE OF BUILDING GEAR/ MATERIALS ON NATURE STRIPS. Council Rangers patrol these laws.
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.
|
|
Thanks to the Australian Federal Police
We couldn’t fit everyone else in the photo but you're all doing amazing sweeties!
|
|
|
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 (Only victims may report.)
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
|
|
|
|
