By Bronwyn Hastings

UPDATE: Police have confirmed that no electronic devices or cameras have been located at the town hall at any time.

EARLIER: Horsham police are investigating reports of hidden cameras being placed in Horsham Town Hall’s changerooms on several occasions, resulting in the venue’s temporary closure.

Hall owner and staff employer Horsham Rural City Council became aware of the alleged security breach on April 1, and reported it to police.

Horsham Crime Investigation Unit detectives immediately commenced an investigation, including inspecting the town hall, and identifying a person of interest.

That person, a male employee, was initially stood down from his workplace and is now no longer employed by the organisation. 

Detectives executed two search warrants for evidence in Horsham on April 2, seizing mobile phones, computers and storage devices, which will be forensically examined.

The man is yet to be interviewed by police.

Police have also contacted the relevant authority in relation to their concerns about a current working with children check.

Horsham Mayor Brian Klowss said council was working with police in their investigation into the alleged breach.

The exact timeframe and number of incidents at the Pynsent Street venue remain unclear but it is believed electronic devices have been used over a period of time.

“We are very aware this development may be concerning and distressing to our staff and members of our community, particularly anyone who has performed at, attended, or worked at Horsham Town Hall,” he said.

“We extend our sincere apologies to those people. From the moment we were made aware of the alleged incident, we took action to prevent any further risk.”

Cr Klowss said response procedures to secure the facility were implemented immediately, with key areas within the town hall checked and cleared by police the same day they were notified of the alleged breach. 

“Council is working closely with VicPol. As this matter is currently subject to an active investigation, we are limited in what we can say,” he said.

To support the investigation and as an added precautionary measure, performances and events at the town hall have been cancelled or rescheduled.

Ticket-holders and affected patrons are being contacted directly with updated arrangements, including rescheduled dates and next steps. 

The first show to be cancelled following the initial police investigation was Thursday’s Cirque Nouvelle performance.

Council cited ‘unforeseen circumstances’ at the time, while Cirque Nouvelle organisers said the venue had safety concerns and was closed for the week. 

“We have no idea (of the nature of the concerns) – the theatre will not tell us any further details. We are very disappointed,” they said.

Comedian Luke Kidgell’s ‘Good Intentions’ show was set to stage on Friday, but has been rescheduled to June 28, while Horsham Regional Art Gallery workshops were also cancelled.

Horsham Arts Council’s Wizard of Oz was set to ‘bump in’ next week for its eight-show run between April 30 and May 10.

Its tri-weekly rehearsals began in January and involved more than 100 people across cast, crew, front-of-house and production.

Arts council president Erin Boutcher said the executive team was made aware of the town hall’s alleged breach about midday on Friday.

“We then called a committee meeting with the town hall staff and council,” she said.

“This resulted in the outcome that our show would be postponed.”

Miss Boutcher said the production team then adjusted the rehearsal schedule and opened Monday’s rehearsal time to inform the cast, crew, and parents.

“Our priority has always been to support the HAC members, and the news of rescheduling is very upsetting to so many involved,” she said.

“We will work to reschedule our show at a later date.”

“Everyone is devastated, and the HAC committee and I will continue to support our members and the wider community groups who are affiliated with HAC,” Miss Boutcher said

Cr Klowss said council’s focus was to support people and assisting police.

“Horsham Town Hall is a place where our community comes together, and we want everyone to feel safe and respected,” he said.

“Our priority is the wellbeing of those who may be affected.”

Council has established a dedicated service for enquiries – people can email hthquestions@hrcc.vic.gov.au. 

“We are also fast-tracking plans to safely restore full operations at the town hall,” Cr Klowss said.

“We will continue to share confirmed information with the community as it becomes available.”

The town hall was expected to reopen today, Wednesday.

Detectives are working to identify people and organisations that may have been affected. Anyone with information or concerns who may have attended the venue and used the changerooms during performances are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

• Anyone experiencing mental-health issues can call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, Lifeline, 131 114, or Kids Helpline, 1800 551 800.

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