Decades on the watch

by Simon HottonOver the past 20 years dedicated residents of the local Montville and Flaxton Neighbourhood Watch have been meeting every three months to discuss, evaluate and respond to imminent threats that have the capacity to drastically affect their communities and surrounding areas.First meeting in 1991, a humble group of seven like-minded residents came together to form Montville and Flaxton's very first Neighbourhood Watch.  This group of concerned locals have grown and transformed into an empowered and informed group of 30-plus residents. Every three months this group of community based individuals come together to discuss any pressing local matters, from potential fire hazards to concerning trending of specific crimes.Teaming up with the Montville Rural Fire Service, this active group are able to distribute as many as 800 newsletters four times a year. This means that hinterland locals are better able to understand current and possible fire threats and crime trends. This partnership is a testament to the rich sense of community within our local townships.The Neighbourhood Watch's next meeting is to be held at 7pm Thursday, August 14 at Saint Marys Hall in Montville. Neighbourhood Watch locals are always eager to meet new faces and could always use an extra hand. For more information on your local Neighbourhood Watch find them at   www.nhwa.com.au.