Margaret River police note surge in activity as population growth starts to bite

Margaret River’s top cop says population growth is the big driver keeping police busier than ever.

Sgt Simone Taplin said police had seen a surge in mental health and domestic violence in recent months, along with common offences contributing to a considerable workload.

“Margaret River is no longer a small seaside town,” Sgt Taplin said.

“Mental health is keeping officers busy, (as well as) domestic disturbances.”

Police had also noted an increase in assaults at licensed premises as the region experienced a boom in visitation, much of it from Perth.

Residents were encouraged to raise any issues they were experiencing with local police.

South West Supt Geoff Stewart said the workload on local officers had not yet grown to the point extra officers were needed.

“We continually assess all resources at our 17 police stations and are able to ensure they have the support they need,” he said.

“This includes bolstering stations for periods with additional resources for planned and unplanned events, both from within the South West district, other districts, metropolitan region and specialist areas.

“Having an agile policing model allows us to move people to where we need them when we need them,” Supt Stewart said.

While Supt Stewart acknowledged population growth was contributing to an increase in challenging incidents, that was common across the South West.

“Domestic violence and mental health are both issues of national significance, not just Margaret River but everywhere else,” he said.

“At a local, district and State level, police are working with our partner agencies and the community to help anyone affected by both these issues.”

Sgt Taplin said police were as reliant on receiving good information from residents.

While the Times had heard of anecdotal claims that methamphetamine use had increased in the community, Sgt Taplin said that was not backed by arrest and seizure figures.

“It is not as prominent as we may think, but it is in the community,” she said.

Sgt Taplin said that if residents were concerned, information on methamphetamine use was welcomed. She encouraged residents to get in touch, or call CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000 to report anonymously.