The University of Newcastle has boosted its on-campus security with two new initiatives - the distribution of 6,500 personal safety whistles and the purchase of five state-of-the-art patrol bicycles.

The whistles, which will be handed out to staff and students, are the second loudest in the world. Each whistle produces a 120 decibel sound, which is comparable to the noise level of a jet engine.

As well as working as a personal alarm, each whistle features the security emergency number.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Services), Dr Sue Gould, said the whistle program was still at the pilot stage but if successful, more whistles would be purchased.

"Whistles are one of the safest forms of personal protection - loud blasts from a whistle will let people know that you need help," she said.

The whistles are available from Student Services and Facilities Management buildings and will also be distributed to staff and students.

As part of the ongoing delivery of campus security, the University has also purchased five new patrol bicycles that will be used by security staff on the Central Coast and Callaghan campuses.

"We recently ran a two-day training course in advanced bicycling techniques for 18 of our security guards, which was very successful. The security officers were taught numerous riding techniques, including how to ride safely down stairs," Dr Gould said.

Photo opportunities:
For a photo of students with the new whistles or campus security staff on the new bikes, contact Megan Cunneen, Media and Public Relations, 02 4921 5351.

For interviews:
Dr Sue Gould, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Services) from the University of Newcastle, is available for interview on 02 4921 7363.