29 years of community patrol service ends

Claire Fleming, coordinator of Martinborough Community Patrol, welcomes Dylan Romanos, farewells Pat Dette.

By Lyle Griffiths

Pat Dette has been a valued member of the Martinborough Community Patrol since 1995. That’s 29 years of community service.

Martinborough Community Patrol began after a public meeting was held, where residents expressed concerns over the levels of crime in Martinborough and the lack of a police constable in town.

Initially patrollers used their own cars, and patrols took place only at night. Equipment was minimal. Night vision glasses and a pager were provided for the patrollers.

Records were kept of the night’s patrol and any incidents were reported back to NZ Police. Guidelines for patrolling were provided by the Police.

In 2003 the Community Patrol formed its first committee, and the Martinborough Community Patrol is now one of 150 affiliated Community Patrol Groups throughout Aotearoa.

Pat has taken on numerous roles. From 2013 she held the position of treasurer, and in 2016 took on responsibility for health and safety requirements, and training. She has held those positions until her retirement.

When asked why she had worked voluntarily for so many years, Pat replied that she has always felt that people should be able to live in a town that is safe.

“People should be able to feel safe in their own homes and their property should be respected. They should be able to walk home at night after going to the cinema or going to a restaurant – without incident.”

She also expressed gratitude for the number of people who have supported and worked for the patrol over the years.

A lot has changed during her tenure. Now the training has become much more professional. Training modules are provided by NZ Police.

The latest recruit to the Community Patrol is Dylan Romanos a recent resident in Martinborough. Like Pat, he has always felt it is important to live in a safe environment. He also feels that it is a way of giving back to the community.

“The task is not onerous” he says. “Giving up 2 hours per month is a no-brainer.

“One thing that surprised me about the Patrol is that there are very few people of my age participating. I have a young family and naturally I wish to keep them safe. It is a small commitment to make.

“It certainly wasn’t as if the process of joining was complicated. Naturally one is vetted by Police to ensure that you have no criminal records. You complete the training modules and then are instructed on using the electric car. You initially go out with experienced patrollers and learn the ropes. As I said, two hours per month is minimal.

“If people want to live safely don’t sit back and expect someone else to do it,” he said. “Just give a little time.”

If you are interested in becoming a patroller email martinborough@cpnz.org.nz