Cobram Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator Ron Renfrew is stepping down from his role after a decade of helping to protect local residents.
The 85-year-old said he originally joined Neighbourhood Watch to look out for his community.
“You try to get residents to look after themselves and their neighbours and give them simple advice to prevent crime,” Mr Renfrew said.
Mr Renfrew launched a number of initiatives during his time as co-ordinator.
In 2012, Neighbourhood Watch started the Community Service Awards for local primary schools to encourage students to look after the community.
In 2013, about 18 ‘lock it or lose it’ signs were spread around the central shopping area and Thompsons Beach to prevent crime, and in 2015 ‘no cash on premises’ stickers were given to all the shop keepers in Cobram.
On November 5, the Neighbourhood Watch committee held an afternoon tea for Mr Renfrew and presented him with a certificate of appreciation to recognise his tireless efforts.
Mr Renfrew said he felt shocked to receive the certificate.
“I had tears in my eyes — you don’t do it for the recognition,” he said.
Mr Renfrew has also been recognised for his efforts previously when he was nominated for the Neighbourhood Watch 2016 State Award of Honour by Wangaratta police Acting Inspector Mick Logan.
Cobram Neighbourhood Watch currently has about 11 members.
According to Mr Renfrew, a mix of young and old board members will be the key to the continuation of Neighbourhood Watch.
He encouraged those with ideas on how to prevent crime in Moira Shire to reach out to the group.
“If you’ve got ideas, come in or contact a member of the group and pass your ideas on,” he said.
Mr Renfrew will continue to be involved with Neighbourhood Watch to deliver newsletters.
He thanked the committee members for their help over the past 10 years.
Co-ordinator Rebecca Harper is following in Mr Renfrew’s footsteps and said she had a lot to learn.
“I joined because I want to get involved in the community and do something worthwhile,” she said.
“I know a lot of Neighbourhood Watch groups have folded and I’m hoping we can keep going.”