COOCHIEMUDLO Island residents are calling for an increased police presence to tackle rising crime and antisocial behaviour as the island struggles to cope with an influx of summer visitors.
Residents say the surge in visitors, driven by the low 50-cent ferry fare, has led to overcrowded spaces, a rise in littering, and heightened perceptions of crime.
One of the more alarming issues affecting the island’s public safety is jetty jumping, a dangerous activity gaining popularity among young visitors.
“We are increasingly facing a situation where teenagers are jumping off the jetty roof into shallow water directly into the path of ferries, often without any regard for the risks,” Coochiemudlo Island Progress Association President Elizabeth Rankin said.
“They’re also harassing elderly residents, swearing, bullying, fighting and causing ferry delays.
“It’s only a matter of time before someone is injured.”
Cr Lance Hewlett, who represents Coochiemudlo Island, has acknowledged the need for a full-time police presence on the island.
“In my opinion, Coochiemudlo needs a full-time police presence during the summer school holidays and on weekends to deter and respond to the illegal activities as quickly as possible,” he said.
“Council officers are doing their very best to collaborate with police to address the increase in social issues, such as jetty jumping, as well as increasing compliance patrols on the Island.”
Another gripe is the over-enforcement of dog regulations.
Coochiemudlo Island has about 400 dogs, and without a permanent off-leash area, residents have struggled with excessive fines.
“Sometimes, Council sends up to nine compliance officers for a population of 850 people – it’s ridiculous,” Ms Rankin said.
State Member for Redlands Rebecca Young said police actions should be guided by the situation on Coochiemudlo Island.
“It’s one thing for kids to have some weekend fun, but it’s another when their behaviour causes disruption for island residents, especially when it affects essential services,” she said.
