Community
17 April, 2025
Investigations ongoing for Leura incident
POLICE investigations are continuing following reports of a suspicious device at the Leura Hotel last week.
Police were at the hotel early afternoon last Wednesday, carrying out a routine firearms license and storage check, when they located what initially appeared to be an “unidentified object.”
“During a routine search police uncovered an object that initially was cause for concern,” Acting Senior Sergeant Stuart Revell said.
“Despite what was reported (in the Chronicle) last week, confirmation of what the device was is still ongoing but it did warrant some safety measures to be taken immediately – including the evacuation of the hotel and nearby businesses.
“Safety is always our first priority. When locating an item that may be a risk, we liaise with the Bomb Response Unit who, on this occasion, were able to confirm it posed no immediate threat and the area was declared safe.”
In light of this most recent incident, Acting Senior Sergeant Revell encouraged anyone who locates a “suspicious item of any kind” to call triple zero immediately if they have any concerns.
“It’s always better to be safe than sorry,” he said.
And in other police news, members across the district are now preparing for a Road Safety Week to be held the week commencing Monday, May 5.
“Right across Corangamite Shire, police will be targeting speeding and other traffic offences including seatbelts, mobile phones and heavy vehicle infringements,” Acting Senior Sergeant Revell said.
In 2023 the law changed in relation to the use of mobile phones in vehicles and police are keen to ensure all drivers are aware of the legislation.
“No longer can mobile phones be touching a drivers’ body,” Acting Senior Sergeant Revell said.
“This includes driving while your phone is in your lap.
“A fully licensed driver can touch a phone placed in a secure cradle for the purposes of accepting or rejecting a call, however you cannot text while driving.
“Navigation needs to be set before you head off. These laws also apply to smart watches.
“And for those on P plates, phones are simply a no-go. Put them away; safely out of reach.
“Drivers can face fines of up to $593 for mobile phone use plus the loss of four demerit points – not to mention the danger they are placing themselves, their passengers and other road users in. It’s not worth the risk.
“Let’s all have a safe time on our roads, particularly over this busy Easter period.”