New station draws big crowd

– Sarah Schwager
MORE than 1000 visitors streamed through the Cranbourne Police Station on Sunday to check out the flash new building.
Police were very impressed with the turnout after running consecutive tours throughout the day.
Acting Sergeant Rod Maroney said the station was packed with people, with four officers showing groups of 15 to 20 people through the station.
“It was fantastic,” Acting Sgt Maroney said. “There was an overwhelming response from the public of Cranbourne to view the new police station and extremely positive feedback on the design and layout.”
He said people from all parts of the community attended, including the elderly, disabled, families and lots of children, who all received show bags.
Casey Radio 3SER 97.7FM broadcast live from the police station for the day.
Visitors were able to view the custody area, interview rooms, holding cells, offender processing areas, overnight sleeping quarters, gymnasium, muster room, sergeant section, administration area and Criminal Investigation Unit (CIU) area.
There was also a DVD on the history of the police station set up in the conference room.
Outside in the courtyard and carpark were displays set up by the City of Casey.
Casey’s community safety officer Ken Lee, members of Neighbourhood Watch, youth resource officers and the crime prevention officer were on hand to speak to while there were also Traffic Management Unit (TMU) vehicles and motorbikes for the public to look at and try out.
The Police Living Historical Society attended and brought along a 1930s British police car and a documented history of policing vehicles from the Victoria Police.
For those less motor inclined, the mounted branch was on hand with several police horses.
There was also a barbecue and refreshments for the public provided by the City of Casey.
Acting Sgt Maroney said a lot of potential recruits had attended on the day, with many people asking how to become a police officer.
Senior Sergeants Bruce Kitchen and Michael Wearne said they were extremely happy with the community’s response.