CLOSED circuit cameras will be installed on island jetties, with Redland City Council today approving the operation in an attempt to fight crime.
The process has won approval so long as council does not have to pay for monitoring, maintenance, repair or replacement.
The move follows lobbying which started several years ago and ended with Bowman MP Andrew Laming arranging a $10,000 Commonwealth grant to the Bay Islands Chamber of Commerce to buy and install cameras.
Cr Mark Edwards said security at jetties had long been a concern due to unsocial behaviour, vandalism and criminal activity.
He said police advised on the best places for cameras to be set up.
”The cameras are to be installed inside vandal protection boxes and are connected by Wi-Fi,” he said.
“The hi-definition cameras are accessed by the police via smart phone technology and don't require physical access to retrieve footage.
“Police can view live streaming and recorded video up to six months old from anywhere through their smart phones.
“There is no council involvement at all other than allowing installation on jetties.”
Cr Edwards said council should pay the minor electricity needs of the cameras as a public service which cost about 4 cents a day to run.
He said the island community were already collecting funds to expand the CCTV network and cameras could be installed on privately-owned property and commercial space.
Cr Paul Bishop said he did not like the idea of cameras popping up in a big brother-like scenario in all sorts of private and public places.
A total of 17 cameras have been installed at the new Weinam Creek bus station.
Cr Edwards said the community supported and drove the project which could be a template for other areas of the state.
“It removes council from the financial burden whilst empowering residents to work with and support the local police,” he said.
“Any community group or even an individual can talk with their local police to see if CCTV is supported and then engage to raise the funds through donations or grants.
As a matter of administrative compliance, officers would ensure that installation would be subject to council compliance.
Deputy mayor Wendy Boglary said she was loathe to compliment Mr Laming but he had done a good job getting the funding.