With Orbost Police Station in desperate need of replacement, Gippsland East Nationals MP Tim Bull is pushing for the funding required to build a new facility.
Mr Bull said he had circled a petition in various local businesses in support of replacing the station, given it had been identified as the number one priority by local police command.
“Having toured the station with officers and having had discussions with staff, it is easy to see why this is at the top of the list,” Mr Bull said.
“The station is just too small to cater for the current level of staff, and only limits possible future increases.
“And following the recent installation of disabled amenities, police lost a holding cell.
“Victoria Police also advised local officers that this station is no longer fit-for-purpose, so it there is a clear need for a larger and more modern station.”
Mr Bull said he and local command were bewildered following the announcement in 2016 that a new station would be built in Mallacoota, while upgrades would take place at other stations in the region including Lakes Entrance.
“While these improvements are great for those communities, it is hard to comprehend why Orbost missed out, particularly when it was identified as the number one priority by local command.
“The Andrews Labor Government has completely ignored the requests from East Gippsland police and the local community.
“I am therefore seeking as many signatures as possible on this petition so we can take that back and show there is an overwhelming level of support for this proposal,” Mr Bull said.
Caption: Having seen first-hand the poor condition of Orbost Police Station, Gippsland East Nationals MP Tim Bull is seeking a commitment to replace the facility and has circled a petition throughout Orbost in support.
Monday, September 24, 2018
