Victoria Police look to reassure Craigieburn community with Splash Aquatic Centre visit

Victoria Police have returned to the Splash Aqua Park and Leisure Centre in the northern Melbourne suburb of Craigieburn to reassure the community following an incident in late October that saw 15 swimmers banned for ‘unruly’ behaviour.

Officers visited Splash Aquatic and Leisure Centre earlier this month to speak to staff and patrons and reassure the community.

As reported by the Hume Leader, Hume City Council has confirmed that 15 people had been banned from entering the facility following a fight broke out on 31st October, which forced staff to close the facility an hour early.

Meeting with young patrons at the popular facility, Victorian Police acting Sergeant Rebecca Amiridis said the force would a number of foot patrols at the aquatic centre over the summer period.

She advised “there were obviously some concerns in relation to an affray that occurred around a month ago with a whole bunch of youths.

“We thought it would be a good idea to reassure the community that Splash is a great place and we’re here to look after them.

“We want to make sure that everyone can go there, as with anywhere in Craigieburn and surrounds and have a good time, enjoy their time and be safe with family and friends.”

acting Sergeant Amiridis said swimmers caught causing trouble would be dealt with appropriately under the law adding that officers would also be conducting road and foot patrols and community interaction events at other venues over the summer to ensure a visible police presence across the region.

She pointed out that officers were approachable and people could speak to them about anything, whether it’s reporting a crime or just a general interaction.

Commenting on the visit, she wadded “our attendance at Splash provides an opportunity for the community to discuss local issues and generally interact with police in a more informal setting.”

City of Hume Mayor Carly Moore said the council was working with police to assure the community Splash was a centre that promoted family values, stating “Splash is a community centre for people of all ages to enjoy safely and we simply will not tolerate any disrespectful behaviour.”

Images: Senior Constable Andrew Bosco [at left] and acting Sergeant Rebecca Amiridis with young patrons at the Splash Aqua Park (top) and Constable Andrew Titta gets a soaking at the popular facility (below) Courtesy of Victoria Police - Hume Police Service Area.