NEW CCTV CAMERAS BOOST SAFETY AND CONFIDENCE IN CORAKI CBD

Community safety in Coraki has received a significant boost with the activation of a new CCTV network aimed at deterring crime, supporting police investigations and improving confidence for residents, businesses and visitors, State Nationals Member for Clarence Richie Williamson said.

Mr Williamson was joined in Coraki by Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow, local Police Sergeant Dean Childs, and members of the local business community yesterday to launch the activation of the cameras and mark the completion of the Coraki Safety Initiative.

The project received $94,500 through the NSW Government's Towns and Villages Resilient Business Activation Program, with Richmond Valley Council contributing a further $40,500, bringing the total project value to $135,000.

The completed network comprises five 360-degree quad cameras positioned throughout the Coraki CBD and four automated number plate recognition cameras located at key entry points into the town. A dedicated monitoring terminal has also been installed at Coraki Police Station, providing NSW Police with direct access to live and recorded footage when required.

Mr Williamson said the project responded to longstanding community concerns about crime and antisocial behaviour and was an excellent example of what could be achieved when all levels of government worked alongside the local community.

"Coraki has been calling for improved CCTV coverage for many years, so it's fantastic to see this important project now complete," Mr Williamson said.

"These cameras will provide an important deterrent to criminal and antisocial behaviour, assist police with investigations and, most importantly, help residents, local businesses and visitors feel safer when they're in town.

"I congratulate Richmond Valley Council on securing the NSW Government funding and contributing additional funding to deliver this project. Council has worked closely with NSW Police to ensure the cameras are installed in locations that maximise community safety and operational effectiveness.

"I also want to acknowledge the collective advocacy of the Coraki Business Chamber and local businesses, whose longstanding commitment to improving safety in the town helped drive this project from concept through to completion."

Richmond Valley Council Mayor Robert Mustow welcomed the activation of the new CCTV network.

"The safety and security of residents in the Richmond Valley is vitally important," Cr Mustow said.

"Coraki has long requested this CCTV installation, and we thank the NSW Government for their support, which will make Coraki a safer place to live and work."

PHOTOS: 1 - Group photo of Richie, Mayor Mustow, Sergeant Dean Childs and members of the Coraki business community. 2- Sergeant Dean Childs showing Richie and Mayor Mustow footage on the screen.