Call to arms: CFS station asks for public help to find thieves
A small CFS station, which played a critical part during the Cudlee Creek fire, has been targeted by thieves, resulting in $6000 worth of equipment being stolen this week.
Adelaide Hills
Don't miss out on the headlines from Adelaide Hills. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- Harrogate calls on mining billionaire for anti-bushfire project
- Mount Barker Council misses out on bushfire recovery grant
Clarendon CFS is calling for public assistance to find those responsible for two separate break ins this week.
Police are investigating the theft of more than $6000 worth of spotlights, which were stolen from the small Hills station on Tuesday and Wednesday night.
The perpetrators also disconnected power to the station on both occasions, sabotaging vehicles requiring charging between call outs.
Station captain Sue Leslie said both incidents could have had severe consequences on the community.
“The issue isn’t as much that we lost $6000 worth of spotlights, which were donated to us through a grant, but more so that whoever did this had to regard on the potential impact this would have had on us,” she said.
“Because they cut the power, we were unable to open the roller doors, meaning we couldn’t get into the station.
“Our vehicles are rely on power. They get charged when not in use.
“So if there would have been another fire or other emergency, we would have been helpless and not been able to assist. I’m not sure that those responsible fully comprehend this.”
Ms Leslie said she encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
“Someone may have seen or heard something, or may do so in the future,” she said.
“I’m guessing they will try to sell them (the lights) at some point. My guess is that they realise how much they are worth, which is why they came back for a second time.
“So I’m asking the public to please keep an eye out and to get in touch with the police or Crimestoppers if they have any information.”
Despite the tragedy, Ms Lelsie said the support of the community has been overwhelming.
“There have been many so many offers of help, including from people offering to replace the equipment that was taken,” she said.
“We’ve also been contacted by electricians, locksmiths and received security advice and while we appreciated all offers, insurance will cover our losses and we will replace what has been stolen through this process.
“For now, we’ve placed a metal frame around the power box to prevent anyone else from accessing it.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
