By LUKE VOOGT
AFTER only a few weeks as the Bellarine’s top cop, Senior Sergeant Shane Madigan is amazed by the dedication of local volunteers and groups.
“I’ve never seen people work so hard towards their community,” he told the Voice this month.
Shane took over as officer in charge (OIC) of Bellarine Police Station on 15 February, replacing Senior Sergeant Angelo Ferraro.
He looks forward to working in small towns where there “is a closer connection between the police and the community”.
“It’s a great opportunity for me,” he said.
“I’ve got some very experienced members here – many who live in the area – who are passionate about this community because they’re part of it.”
Shane grew up in the western suburbs of Melbourne and his family often travelled to the Bellarine.
“Growing up we used to camp along the foreshore, so I’ve always liked the area,” he said.
Co-incidently, Shane’s first memory of the area was also his first encounter with the police.
At five years old he got lost on the Barwon River and was picked up by officers.
“I still remember sitting in the back seat of the car driving through the caravan park looking for my parents,” he said.
Shane’s served Victoria Police for 23 years, including four years as OIC at Geelong Police Station and two years as OIC at Waurn Ponds.
He said police numbers were gradually increasing in the Bellarine, improving their ability to protect the peninsula.
“We are getting drip-fed members as new custody officers start to arrive in Geelong,” he said.
Sergeant Grant Langmaid is also taking up command, at Drysdale, a position he held from 2007 to 2014.
“I’m super keen to help establish that link again,” he said.
Former Corio Sergeant Mark Gray will take over at Portarlington Police Station on 3 April, while Sen Sgt Ferraro will take over as Waurn Ponds OIC after long-service leave.
