One year on since the destructive tobacco shop fire in Bendigo’s Hargreaves Mall, The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad has called for an increased police presence in the city’s main central shopping area.
Bendigo’s Free Choice tobacco store was destroyed after a car rammed into it around 4.30am on January 29 last year. Two men were later charged over the incident which is estimated to have caused $4 million in damages. Several nearby businesses were also damaged in the fire, causing major disruption to business owners.
“It is disappointing to see the temporary barriers still in place 12 months after the tobacco store was destroyed, and its continued impact on local businesses.
A year on from the fire, Ms Broad said she was very concerned about crime, hooning and ongoing anti-social behaviour in central Bendigo.
“I have been approached by people who feel uncomfortable and unsafe in the mall. Retailers are feeling scared, and staff are concerned for their safety.
Numerous retailers including Cotton On, Typo, and Colliers Shoes have left the Bendigo Mall, and many shop fronts remain empty.
“Many residents and local businesses are very concerned about rising crime around Bendigo and keen to see an increased police presence in the Bendigo Mall, or even a police booth.
Ms Broad said recent figures from the Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) showed crime had skyrocketed in Bendigo.
In Bendigo in the 12 months to 30 September 2024, stealing from retail stores had doubled; aggravated robbery was up 69 per cent; residential aggravated burglary had risen by a whopping 89 per cent; and motor vehicle thefts were up 50 per cent.
“The Allan Labor Government is not doing enough to address rising crime. There are over 1000 vacancies in Victoria Police, and they weakened bail laws and scrapped the role of Minister for Crime Prevention.
“Residents feel scared, and the State Government need to prioritise community safety.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764
