Jandowae Neighbourhood Watch Minutes (13/8/2014)

Present: : Margaret Atkinson , Philip Atkinson, Ray & Daphne Polzin, Bevan & Mary von Cronholm, Max Barlow, Dudley & Helen Cronin, Bob & Cynthia Harling, Sergeant Mark Avent, Ray Brook (Guest speaker).

Apologies: Brian and Ann McNamara, Senior Constable Alan Ward, Michelle Skinner.

Previous Meeting Minutes read by M Atkinson, and moved as correct by Daphne Polzin seconded by Bob Harling. Carried

Treasurer's Report: Opening Balance $374.97, No expenses, no income. Closing balance $374.97. Moved as correct by Ray Polzin, seconded by Mary von Cronholm.Carried.

Crime Report: Sergeant Mark Avent presented a comprehensive report of crime in our district. Moved as accepted by Ray Polzin seconded by Bevan von Cronholm.

General Business:

• Margaret spoke of a scam whereby a request for "cash out" could result in the cash being taken out anyway. All receipts should be checked prior to leaving the shop, and when asked "do you want a receipt" ALWAYS say yes.
• Max Barlow requested clarification of possible new laws regarding towing chain shackles (D-bolts) on caravans. Mark will investigate and let us know.
• Ray Polzin requested info on fog lights and when should car lights be turned on. Mark advised fog lights only to be used in fog, and car lights must be on when street lights turned on.
• Mark also advised us to call 000 if someone was swerving all over the road causing immediate danger to other drivers, and try to make a note of the vehicle registration and general description.
• Mark Advent confirmed it is an offence to go through an amber light, unless it is unsafe to brake to a halt.
• Council to be advised that some of the trees lining the road in town have outgrown their protective framework.
• Council to be advised that "Boggy when wet" sign is missing from Eva Street and the street signs in that area are so confusing that visitors are unable to locate particular addresses.

Guest speaker: Ray Brook from Alert Security in Dalby spoke about home and personal security and advised to:

• Have good locks on all doors.
• Take notice of strangers in the area by noting their description and any vehicle details.
• Build a rapport with neighbours so they would look out for each other.

He also showed us a personal alarm small enough to carry in a pocket or handbag, that emits a loud scream and siren noise at the push of a button; and was available at Dick Smith's for $30.

Meeting closed at 8.25 pm. The next meeting will be the Xmas party on 19th November at 7.30 pm.