Cobram residents have in recent weeks been vocal on social media regarding whether the town should have a 24/7 police station.
Currently, the local police station reception counter operates from 8am to 10pm, with the closest 24-hour stations located in Shepparton and Wangaratta.
In a post on Facebook by Moira Neighbourhood Watch, the public was asked whether Cobram police station should change to a 24/7 police station, with the public overwhelmingly in favour of a change to police station operations.
“Yes... has been a long overdue requirement for the area,“ Fred Mustica said.
“We need one as we are a growing population here and the shire alone has more than enough people here for us to need a 24-hour police (station),” Lese Cullen said.
“It should because if you need the police, you have to phone Wangaratta police. It could be too late by the time the Cobram police arrive,” Val Hoolahan said.
“Yes, definitely, it would help make us feel protected,” Alison Smith said.
It's not just public sentiment that is moving towards wanting a 24/7 police station.
Moira Shire Council chair of the panel of administrators John Tanner said the council would support a move to a round-the-clock police station, noting the town’s growth, the influx of tourists and that it is the hub of police operations in the area.
However, Mr Tanner was keen to stress that the council ultimately had no say in the matter and that all decisions relating to police operational matters were made by the government.
Cobram Senior Sergeant Nathan Ractliffe has moved to reassure the public that police are constantly active in keeping the public safe.
“While the reception counter at Cobram may not be open 24 hours, it is important to remember that police are out on patrol 24/7 during peak periods,” he said.
“We know this is the most effective way to detect and deter crime.”