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INSIDE: ■ Letters to the Editor | page 15 ■ Health Professionals | page 20 ■ If it’s Got Wheels | page 22 ■ Classifieds | pages 23+24 ■ 7 Day TV Guide | page 25
Latest drought assistance “does not go far enough” GOVERNMENT assistance for farmers experiencing drought has been topped up, with the State Government investing a further $75M, bringing the total support package to $144M. Peak bodies including the Victorian Farmers Federation (VFF) said the additional support is a step in the right direction, however, some leaders are saying it does not go far enough, including State Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe. Continued Page 10
ADDRESSING INCREASED CRIME STATISTICS... Local Area Commander Inspector Bruce Simpson and Acting Senior Sergeant Jasmine Gregor (pictured) shared insights into Greater Shepparton’s significant rise in crime statistics over the past year, ahead of the upcoming Shepparton Neighbourhood Policing Forum— going online for the first time on July 23, from 6 to 8pm. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto
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Crime rate increases dramatically
By Natasha Fujimoto trend, which is not unique to the Greater THE latest crime statistics released by the Shepparton Policing Service Area (PSA) but independent Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) “reflects” a broader statewide pattern. have understandably raised concern across “The 21 per cent increase follows a couple the community, revealing a 21 per cent of years of consistently low crime rates in increase in reported offences for the year Shepparton, which we had been celebrating. ending March 2025. This rise is by no So, these new figures come as a bit of a means a welcome development. surprise to us,” Inspector Simpson said. Local Area Commander Inspector Bruce While the statistics show an overall rise Simpson spoke candidly about the upward in crime, Inspector Simpson noted that the
increase also highlights deeper issues, as well as some positive signs. Community confidence in reporting incidents, particularly in cases of family violence and retail theft, has improved. Inspector Simpson stated that this growing confidence reflects the ongoing efforts by local police and support agencies to create a safer environment for victims. “Reporting these offences is a critical first step towards intervention and long-term prevention,” Inspector Simpson said. Continued Page 15