Funding secured for CCTV project

Echuca’s long-awaited CCTV project will go ahead.

Moama Bowling Club has announced a major funding commitment of $100,000 to support the Echuca Moama Safe Towns Camera Project, a community-driven initiative designed to improve public safety and reduce anti-social behaviour across Echuca’s CBD and key visitor precincts.

The project, led by the Committee for Echuca Moama (C4EM) in collaboration with Victoria Police, Campaspe Shire Council, local retailers, hospitality venues, and community representatives, aims to establish a modern CCTV network to enhance safety, deter crime, and support police in responding to incidents more effectively.

Moama Bowling Club previously contributed $30,000 toward the initiative, helping to secure the project’s initial planning and design. With the total funds raised currently sitting at $50,000, this new contribution brings the project to the required amount to commence Stage 1 — the installation of CCTV cameras throughout Echuca’s High Street, CBD, and tourism precincts.

Moama Bowling Club CEO Paul Barnes said the Club was pleased to play a key role in bringing this long-planned project to life.

“This initiative has been years in the making, and its benefits to the safety and wellbeing of locals, visitors and businesses are clear,” he said.

“As a major community stakeholder, we believe it’s important to support measures that strengthen the security, confidence and liveability of the Echuca–Moama region.”

Stage 1 of the project will deliver significant improvements to community safety, including:

• Reduced anti-social behaviour and property damage

• Enhanced safety for visitors, late-night traders and staff

• Improved police capability to monitor, respond to, and investigate incidents

• Increased confidence among local businesses and community members

Funding from Moama Bowling Club reaffirms the Club’s long-term commitment to community wellbeing, social responsibility, and cross-border collaboration.

C4EM chair Tim Ford welcomed the support.

“Moama Bowling Club has once again stepped forward as a leader in community partnership,” he said.

“This funding ensures we can finally begin Stage 1 of the Safe Towns project, which will have a measurable impact on safety in the Echuca CBD. Their contribution is deeply appreciated and demonstrates what can be achieved when local organisations come together for the good of the community.”

Acting Inspector Justin McAuley said it was great news for the Echuca community.

“Our long-anticipated CCTV Camera project has finally reached its Stage 1 funding goal,” Acting Insp. McAuley said.

“The incredible dedication and passion shown by the members of the Echuca Neighbourhood Safety Committee is finally paying off. The hard work behind the scenes put in by this committee has attracted a generous donation from the Moama Bowling Club, bringing the project even closer to reality.

”These CCTV cameras will not only instil a sense of security amongst our residents and visitors but will also equip Victoria Police with the means to swiftly identify and apprehend wrongdoers. The investment into our community's safety is immeasurable and we cannot wait for the installation to be complete. Let's celebrate this win for our Echuca CBD and its residents. A big shout out goes to all the hardworking individuals and groups that made this possible.”