Whether or not it is worse or better than neighbouring towns is, in the end, probably irrelevant.

People are concerned that there is an unacceptably high level of crime in the place they live.

This week’s police raids and arrests are a great comfort to people who believe crime has been festering close to their homes.

It shows police have been working hard behind the scenes to get a result.

Understandably, police can’t tell people about these efforts because if you tell the world, you just won’t get a result.

But two-way communication appears to have been lacking.

It is great to hear our top police officers openly talking to the people who are concerned and working with other groups to tackle the problems that exist.

The election has also thrown a savage light on a key issue – we have no 24-hour policing and cannot have 24-hour policing until we have a police station capable of housing an adequate number of officers.

At the moment, police are forced to travel regularly to Tamworth and back to process people who are facing charges.

There is something Gunnedah police can do about it and that is to take advantage of this pre-election period to kick up a stink.

If we want 24-hour policing, now is the time to say so.

Gunnedah can make a difference in the seat of Tamworth, and Tamworth can make a difference in the state of NSW.

Let’s make ourselves heard.

Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson has said he has been encouraged to show just how badly Gunnedah wants an upgraded police station.

We have four weeks to do it.

If you feel strongly about it, sign the petition at Gunnedah businesses or write your letter to Mr Anderson or the Police Minister.

This is a gold-plated opportunity to do something solid for ourselves, so let’s do it.