Surf Coast Shire is taking action against anti-social gatherings at Torquay beaches before the upcoming Easter holidays.
Mr Kelly defines Gatherings as a social medium where young people aged between 12 and 16 meet up in a particular space, with drugs and alcohol being a regular occurrence.
Torquay resident Andrew Kelly raised the issue during Surf Coast Shire Council’s March meeting and was concerned about possible future gatherings.
“I have been extremely scarred by what was witnessed on that night,” he said.
“With people in and out of consciousness, clearly drug affected lying on front yards, pulling people out of trees, and it just seems to be a difficult issue.
“The damage itself to the public amenity is self-evident.”
Surf Coast local area commander Inspector Monique Leffanue said Victoria Police maintained a high police presence on Torquay’s popular beaches and regularly contacted Geelong and Torquay schools.
“Victoria Police are aware of multiple gatherings at Torquay beaches which have been attended by a large number of students from different schools across the Torquay and Geelong areas,” she said.
“Torquay police will continue to work with the Council and community to address concerns and are open to receiving any information relating to offending which impacts community safety.”
Surf Coast Shire Mayor Liz Pattison said Council would continue to work with Torquay Police to limit anti-social behaviours in public places.
“As the Easter holidays approach we urge parents and guardians to provide safe and engaging environments for their children,” she said.
“It is something that is complex, and we do need to work with Victoria Police to provide a number of activities to engage, connect with, and provide supports to families and our youth in the region.”
