The figure sounds alarming, but instead of being scared, the community should feel reassured.

Horsham police leaders believe the jump can be attributed to officers being proactive.

Inspector Trevor Ashton highlighted the work of police who made seven arrests following raids on Wimmera homes on Monday.

We should also highlight the work of the Wimmera Drug Action Taskforce, which has been working hard with many others to increase education about drugs particularly crystal methamphetamine and their effects on the region.

The taskforce sees drugs in the Wimmera as a 'whole of community' problem.

While it relies on police to hold up their end of the bargain, the community's role cannot be underestimated.

Mr Ashton said police had actively sought help from the community.

He thanked those who had provided information about drug activities for making their community safer.