THE Alpine Shire has been revealed as arguably the safest community in the state, with a 25.8 per cent reduction in offences, according to the latest crime figures.
Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) data released in the 12 months to September 2024 showed the shire recorded 137 less offences compared to this time last year and a reduction of 12.1 per cent in criminal incidents.
A reduction of 47 less sexual offences, 34 less breaches of family violence orders and 14 less steal from motor vehicle offences from the year prior were key to the community’s safer data.
Alpine’s offence rate of 2994 offences per 100,000 people is the lowest recorded in the area in a decade and the lowest rate of all local government areas in the state.
Inspector Ash Mason, local area commander of the Wangaratta police service area which encompasses Alpine, Moira and Wangaratta shires, said the data was incredibly pleasing to see.
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“Especially when you consider the influx of temporary visitation to our area with the Alpine LGA being a very popular tourist destination,” he said.
A rare uptick in offending was recorded in other theft incidents in the latest data with an increase of five criminal incidents from 20 recorded the year prior.
Inspector Mason said it was a timely warning for the summer holiday period.
“We’ll have an influx of people visiting the area and choosing to stay at various accommodation outlets or campsites,” he said.
“It’s a timely reminder for people not to be complacent of their personal property and prevent the opportunity for those with ill-intent to steal those items.”
Inspector Mason reminded motorists in the area to stay vigilant on local roads, with a heavy police presence continuing throughout Operation Roadwise until the new year.
“If you’re driving a motor vehicle on our roads, you’ll likely see police, you’ll likely be intercepted and you’ll likely be tested for the presence of alcohol and or drugs,” he said.
“We have a significant focus on the risk impaired driving presents and we urge every motorist, if they consume alcohol or drugs, not to get behind the wheel and drive.
“Drive at or under the posted speed limit and drive to weather, road and traffic conditions.”
