Eyewatch - Southern Grampians Police Service Area

21/10/2026

Thinking about buying an electric fat bike?

Fat bikes are easy to spot thanks to their extra-wide tyres, but don't assume every electric fat bike is a legal e-bike.

Some models are capable of speeds and power levels that place them in the motorcycle category.

If that's the case, riders need:

✅ Registration
✅ A motorcycle licence or learner permit
✅ To be 18+

Check the rules before you buy: https://transport.vic.gov.au/road-and-active-transport/active-transport/bicycles/electric-bikes

20/10/2026

🌞🌻 It was a blooming nice day for a picnic. 🌻🌞

Yesterday, Hamilton Police joined local organisations and community members at the inaugural Sunflower Social in the Hamilton Botanical Gardens.

With the forecast rain holding off and the sun making an appearance instead, the event provided an opportunity for organisations working across the disability sector to come together, share ideas and strengthen connections
within the Southern Grampians community.

Representatives from Hamilton Police Station, Latrobe Community Health Service, Southern Grampians Shire Council, Mulleraterong Centre, are-able,
the local MP office, Java Jive Mobile Coffee Van Hamilton, and Hamilton Spectator were among those in attendance.

As the first event of its kind in our region, discussions focused on invisible disabilities and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, highlighting the importance of understanding that not all disabilities are immediately visible.

The conversations started yesterday won't end there. The relationships built and connections strengthened will help support future collaboration across the sector, creating more opportunities for organisations to work together and support our community.

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed. We look forward to seeing this initiative continue to grow. 🌻

19/10/2026

🌻 Not every disability is visible. 🌻

This week marks Invisible Disabilities Week, and October is also ADHD Awareness Month. It's an opportunity to raise awareness, promote understanding and celebrate the diversity of our community.

To recognise the week, local partners are hosting a Sunflower Social at:

📍 Hamilton Botanical Gardens, French Street, Hamilton
📅Tuesday 20th of October
🕚11:00am to 2:00pm

Everyone is welcome to attend this free community event. Attendees are invited to:

🥪 Bring your lunch, brunch, snack or cuppa and enjoy a relaxed picnic while connecting with others in the community.
🧺 Picnic blankets and seating will be available.
🌻 Learn more about Invisible Disabilities Week and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

Not every disability is visible. The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a simple way for people to voluntarily share that they may need a little extra support, understanding or time.

Learn more:
🌐 https://hdsunflower.com/au/what-is-a-hidden-disability

We hope to see you there.

18/10/2026

🌭 It was a great day to ketchup with the community! 🌭

Members from the Hamilton Neighbourhood Policing Unit enjoyed spending some time at the BBQ hosted at Harvey Norman Hamilton on Friday.

Alongside Mixx FM and the Lions Club, our members took the opportunity to wander around, say hello and catch up with members of the community on what was a beautiful sunny day.

Judging by the smiles, the conversations and the aroma of a well-cooked snag, everyone had a great time! 😄

A big thank you to everyone who stopped for a chat, and to the organisers for having us along.

16/10/2026

Thinking of buying an e-scooter? 🛴

Not all e-scooters are legal to ride in Victoria.

A legal e-scooter must 👇:

- Have a max speed capability of 25 km/h
- Only be ridden by aged 16+ wearing a helmet
- Be ridden at a maximum speed of 20km/h
- Have two wheels, a handlebar and a footboard
- Weigh less than 45 kg.

Before you buy, make sure you know the rules: https://transport.vic.gov.au/road-and-active-transport/active-transport/e-scooter-road-rules

14/10/2026

Ever looked at the screws holding your number plates on? Most of us haven’t. 🔩

For Crime Prevention Month, you can order free anti-theft screws through Neighbourhood Watch Victoria Inc.

Protect your plates from would-be thieves and order yours here: nhw.com.au/cars-and-vehicles/protect-your-plates

13/10/2026

⛪ Portland Crime Investigation Unit recently recovered several stolen items from a residence in Portland, including this 145-year-old cross belonging to the All Saints Catholic Church.
👏 Investigations are still ongoing into the criminal damage and theft of the cross, and we thank the community for the information provided that led us to the residence of where the cross was located.
👀 Whilst this a great result of returning the cross to its rightful owners, the community of Portland should not have to deal with despicable acts of vandalism and theft such as this. If you see criminal activity or notice something suspicious, please report it to police or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

13/10/2026

11/10/2026

🌅 End of Shift, Southwest Victoria 🚔
A spectacular sunrise greeted members on patrol in Hamilton this week, with the Grampians providing a stunning backdrop. 🏞️☀️
While the view is worth stopping for, our focus remains on keeping local roads and community's safe, day and night. 👮‍♂️👮‍♀️🚓
Whether you're heading to work, school, or exploring the region, remember to drive to the conditions, stay alert, and arrive safely. ✅🚗💺
Stay safe, take your time, and enjoy the beauty that Southwest Victoria has to offer. 🌄❤️

10/10/2026

🚴‍♂️ Australian Pedal Car Grand Prix 🚓

Coleraine Police and Hamilton Highway Patrol attended the annual Australian Pedal Car Grand Prix held in Coleraine on Saturday, 3 October 2026.
As part of the day, speed checks were conducted on a number of entrants, with the highest speed recorded reaching an impressive 38km/h! 👏
It was fantastic to be part of such a well-supported community event, showcasing teamwork, sportsmanship, innovation, and a healthy dose of friendly competition. Congratulations to all teams, organisers, volunteers, and supporters who helped make the event another great success.