Locals are urged to take advantage of vehicle immobiliser vouchers to reduce car thefts and help keep the community safe.
Since August last year the state government has offered 500 dollar subsidy vouchers to residents.
So far, more than 18,700 residents from Cairns, Townsville and Mount Isa have used the vouchers with 93 per cent of vouchers now secured and 36 per cent redeemed and installed.
There is now less than two months until the trial ends.
Townsville District Acting Superintendent Dean Cavanagh is encouraging North Queenslanders to take up a voucher and play a part in crime prevention.
“While police are out day and night working to protect our communities, this is one way you can work with us to prevent crime and protect your property.
“While it is disappointing that three people were victims of break ins, it is reassuring to see that their immobilisers meant their vehicles were safe.
“The vouchers have been in high demand and there are limited numbers left.
“We encourage community members to go online and apply and urge anyone with a voucher to book their installation in as soon as possible.
“Our first priority is keeping the community safe, and this subsidy gives North Queenslanders another tool to help protect their property and work with us as we continue to target property crime.”
Glen from Burdell in Townsville says his vehicle immobiliser stopped an attempted thief following a break in October.
“I’m so glad I got the engine immobiliser fitted, it has already prevented my car from being stolen.
“It gives me peace of mind and a lot more security, I think it’s a great initiative.”
Mick from Bayview Heights in Cairns also prevented thieves from stealing his car in January.
After installing an engine immobiliser, his car was pushed down the street but was left abandoned when the immobiliser stopped it from starting.
“It gives me peace of mind, I still hide everything of a nighttime but I know that they’re not going to be able to get that car.”
