Fresh

By Paul Dunlop
A NEW era has begun for Pakenham’s police — and none would feel the change more keenly than Acting Senior Sergeant Graham Higginbotham.
The move to the recently completed police and emergency services precinct on the Princes Highway marks a major turning point in his career, which began in Pakenham almost 20 years ago.
“I had my job interview at the station in James Street in 1989,” Acting Sen Sgt Higginbotham said.
“Back then a sergeant and four senior constables were stationed at Pakenham.
“There were another dozen police at Berwick, including a senior sergeant, and that was it.
“It is amazing how the area has grown and developed since then.”
Police moved into their headquarters officially today (Wednesday), leaving behind the rabbit warren of portables and offices that has housed the expanding service that now numbers more than 70 personnel.
Pakenham’s police force now consists of a district inspector, two senior sergeants, six sergeants and 55 senior constables and constables as well as a 10member traffic management unit and fivemember criminal investigation unit.
There are also two youth resource officers and administrative support staff.
The $11 million facility will also house Pakenham’s CFA and State Emergency Service crews and vehicles, with the CFA set to maintain its John Street headquarters during the fire season.
Acting Sen Sgt Higginbotham said police had been greatly looking forward to the move.
He said that he was excited about the new headquarters , which will put Pakenham’s emergency services – with the exception of the ambulance service – under the one roof.
The complex also has other facilities, including a disaster plan room and a multipurpose room for seminars, training and communications.
There are also longterm plans for a magistrates’ court as the local population continues to grow.
The new phone number for the police station is 5945 2500.