A security gate has been fitted at the Hugh Wyndham Park substation which was plagued by cable theft earlier this year thanks to the contribution of Dunkeld West residents.
Tracy Malcolm, a resident who lives nearby the substation, struggled with power cuts when cable thieves broke into the substation four times during June and July this year.
“My husband and I had a chat after the power disruptions and decided we would get a gate installed,” said Malcolm. She rallied together financial support from community members by contacting them via residents associations and WhatsApp groups in the area. Malcolm added that 18 to 20 households helped fund the project.
After gaining permission from City Power, based on a few conditions, the installation took place on 26 September.
Ward 90 councillor Martin Williams said the improved security at the substation at Hugh Wyndham Park was an example of how proactive citizens could work with officials for the benefit of the community.
“The project can also be a template for securing other vulnerable substations in the area… discussions are underway to fit an alarm at the substation,” said Williams, commending the work of Malcolm for initiating the project, arranging residents to fund it and engaging with contractors to fit the security gate.
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