Police on horseback are patrolling a Sunshine Coast tourist hotspot amid increased efforts to address anti-social behaviour.
The Queensland Police Service Mounted Unit has been deployed to Mooloolaba to monitor the area and clamp down on unruly behaviour.
There has been a spate of incidents along the esplanade in recent months, including acts of vandalism at amenities blocks and a bus stop (see the video below).
A QPS spokesperson said police on horseback could make an impact.
“The Queensland Police Service Mounted Unit is one of many additional resources Sunshine Coast Police are utilising in Mooloolaba as part of proactive patrols to address anti-social behaviour in the area.”
“The mounted unit is based at Moggill in Brisbane and is routinely deployed to assist police across the state with high visibility policing in areas where they can best support frontline police to target crime and keep the community safe.
“The increased police presence in Mooloolaba reinforces the district’s commitment to community safety through detecting, deterring and disrupting crime and antisocial behaviour in our community.”
The spokesperson said the unit offered advanced policing measures.
“Police horses have a unique capability to navigate difficult terrain such as beaches and forests to assist with high visibility patrols, search and rescues, crowd management and community engagement.”
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The QPS also stated that other measures have been deployed.
“Police routinely utilise officers (on foot) as well as other animals (police dogs), vehicles, vessels, aircraft (helicopter) and technologies to target areas of concern.”
Police have started an investigation into the incidents that occurred along the Mooloolaba Esplanade during the past three months.
Officers were called to two disturbances involving large groups of youths in June and in July, when there was damage to a bus stop and a toilet block. An unknown number of offenders caused damage to a toilet block in August.
Maroochydore Station Officer in Charge, Senior Sergeant Jacob Flaherty, said youths creating disturbances could expect to see police anywhere, anytime.
Mooloolaba is one of the most visited locations on the Sunshine Coast, due to its sandy beaches, shopping, dining and accommodation.
There has also been a clampdown on disturbances involving youths at Kawana.
