Camperdown hotel device declared safe after police evacuation
A suspicious device safe located at the Leura Hotel in Camperdown on Wednesday afternoon was declared safe by police after it caused evacuations and business closures in the area.
Camperdown uniform police officers attended the licensed premises on Manifold Street for an unrelated matter at around 1.50pm when the device was discovered. The area was immediately cordoned off and surrounding buildings evacuated as a precaution.
A Victoria Police media liaison spokesperson confirmed an active operation was underway.
"Police officers are currently conducting a safety check after a device was located at a licensed premises in Camperdown on Wednesday afternoon," they said.
"Officers were at the premises on Manifold Street for an unrelated matter and located the device about 1.50pm.
"The surrounding area has been evacuated as a precaution while inquiries are made."
The Corangamite Shire Council office in Camperdown was evacuated, and staff were sent home. Nearby businesses, including the National Australia Bank and a medical clinic on Scott Street, were also closed.
Police confirmed the area and device had been deemed safe at 4.21pm.
Jonathan Jackson, 10th April 2025
