10 year olds begging, fighting: ‘We need more city security’ – whistleblower

ERIN PEARSON
CHILDREN as young as ten were begging for money and fighting in central Geelong, according to a whistleblower.
The security officer, who didn’t want to be named for fear of losing his job, works at the Moorabool Street bus interchange and is concerned for the welfare of children and youths roaming the city in gangs during the day.
He said unless Geelong’s council put on more security officers before summer, violence and misbehavior could spiral “out of control”.
In the last three months he’d witnessed around nine fights, he said.
“One guy used a bike lock that weighed about two kilograms as a weapon that we had to take care of. These guys are basically fighting amongst each other.
“We’re overwhelmed by it all because we are trying to take care of old folk and deal with the fighting youth.
“Over summer we desperately need our staff numbers doubled because we’re just trying to make everyone safe.”
The Independent reported earlier this month that a 21-year-old Leopold man required medical attention after he was assaulted in central Geelong on September 13.
Hume Protection Group chief executive officer Rocky Pirrottina, security contractor for the bus exchange, said despite the alleged incidents, violence had reduced in central Geelong.
Mr Pirrottina said he was more concerned about the number of youths consuming alcohol around Moorabool Street’s bus interchange.
“I believe a bigger police presence would help. We need them in town every day,” he said.
Barwon Youth Executive Director Shane Murphy said many Geelong children came from dysfunctional families and were unable to live at home, which often pushed them out onto the streets.
“This agency recognises the need for outreach youth workers,” he said.
“City of Greater Geelong wants to solve the problems around Moorabool St but I don’t see any outreach activity in the city centre.
“CCTV cameras aren’t even on during the week.”
Geelong Police Inspector Chris Gawne said the station would continue its foot and bike patrols through central Geelong throughout spring and summer.
City of Greater Geelong failed to respond to the Independent’s request for comment prior to the paper going to press.