Service spotlight: Helping to create safe and enjoyable spaces
Our team of rangers are a visible presence around the shire, helping to create a healthy and safe environment for the community and promote compliance with our Local Laws.
Council ranger Jason, a member of the team since 2022, acknowledges the role comes with challenges. But he loves the opportunity to make a positive impact on a daily basis.
“I really like the community aspect around helping people be better next time, and helping the general population enjoy the beautiful coast and hinterland that we have here in the Surf Coast Shire,” Jason said.
“Our emphasis is always on education first – enforcement comes second.
“We always want people to make choices that are positive.”
A day on the job can take Jason from a patrol checking compliance with parking regulations, to the scene of a dog attack, or training a school crossing supervisor.
Rangers are also on the scene for reports of stock on the loose or in distress, and to mediate neighbourhood disputes over barking dogs.
Jason says the job can be confronting at times, but is also highly rewarding.
“You deal with a lot in this job, whether it be people-related distress, people in heightened emotional situations, or animals,” Jason said.
“The team we have is really good at de-escalation and explaining why we do things. It’s not just a ‘no’ – there is always a reason behind it.”
Council’s Local Laws aim to ensure the community is safe and that everyone can use and enjoy public spaces and land.
Rangers such as Jason play a crucial role in working towards these aims by encouraging consideration for others, and stepping in when people or animals’ behaviour is impacting others or the environment.
“Often people will see the uniform or hear the rule and just think we’re there to issue a penalty,” Jason said.
“But often we’re just trying to help the community understand the rule and the reason the rule exists.
“Our local laws are in place because that’s the standard the community wants and accepts.”