Hi there, I have a true passion for the safety of all at Emerald Hill, Housing Commission building, 200 Dorcas Street, South Melbourne 3205.

This place is a true Melbourne Icon, our very first commission housing high rise building.

Security here is a rare commodity, there are 2 security guards, looking after this sprawling estate, nestled in a beautiful tree lined street a stone’s throw from our world renowned market and the our respected shrine of remembrance.

As I think you will agree, two security guards for 300+ commission housing residents is less than a token gesture.  Not only that, imagine the risk to guards, no thanks! Particularly as the security cameras are extremely unclear, often in black and white all are dated at best, inactive at worst and cover c15% of the estate.

So I propose we remove all security from this building. Lets at least keep these two poor guards safe.

Oh, in case you are wondering myself and many other non-resident and residents alike have spoken and written on multiple occasions to our local MP and Department of housing.

SUMMARY – from department of housing – security guards have no powers other than to call the police should they see fit. Feasibility study suggests no change warranted or required. 2 guards are sufficient stage 4 lock down see excerpt below, full letter available on request.

*****Last and final response: From local MP and Department of housing*******

I understand your concerns about the patrol not being based in the foyer and your observation of residents and visitors entering and exiting during and outside of curfew. I understand this is not the immediate solution you have proposed, but it is not safe to have a stationary guard in this area. I can keep you updated on the security foyer upgrade as it progressess.

More info, photograhs and email threads available on request 

WHAT A VICTORY!!!! WE COULD KEEP TWO PEOPLE (who otherwise would not be) SAFE AT 200 DORCAS STREET SAFE. ok they are our assigned security workers but better than nothing :-)