Australian flag stolen at Calamvale for the third time this year

Thieves have been labelled “un-Australian” after they made off with a large national flag that was on a pole out the front of a shopping centre. It’s the third time this year the flag has been targeted.

Police are investigating the theft of an Australian flag from out the front of Brisbane City Councillor Angela Owen’s office on Algester Rd, Calamvale.

Thieves have been labelled “un-Australian” after they made off with a large national flag that was on a pole out the front of a Brisbane City Council office.

Police are investigating after the flag, which is located at the Central Park shopping centre on Algester Rd, Calamvale, was stolen sometime between Friday night and Monday morning.

It is the third time this year the flag has been targeted.

Algester resident and veteran Bill Ward OAM MM said the thefts were “unnecessary” and the behaviour was “un-Australian”.

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Brisbane City Councillor Angela Owen (Calamvale ward) with a new flag to replace the stolen one.

“After 35 years of serving our country I am appalled people would be doing this,” he said.

“It appears to me the importance of the flag is not been recognised if people think they can go and steal one”.

Cr Angela Owen told the Southern Star she had replaced the flag twice this year already, after it was burnt and stolen on two separate occasions this year.

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“For this flag to be stolen from the flagpole is absolute disrespect towards the many men and women who have served and continue to serve our Nation in times of conflict and peace.” Cr Angela Owen said.

Brisbane City Councillor Angela Owen (Calamvale ward) snapped this photo of the flag pole ropes cut.

“For it to happen once is bad enough, but for it to be a continuing circumstance indicates a deliberate campaign to remove the Australian flag from its rightful place in our local community.

“In one instance the flag was burned off the pole and in the most recent theft the flag loops were severed, as the hooks and zip ties securing it are still in situ.

“On the weekend I attended a memorial service to honour local veterans in my role as councillor and as proud Patron of the National Servicemen’s Association of Queensland, and I am appalled at the disgraceful actions which show callous disregard for others who have been prepared to put their lives on the line for the benefit of the freedom and democracy we enjoy today in our nation.

The flag has been stolen and damaged three times this year at Calamvale. Photo: File

“The significant height of the clips for the flag require at least two people present to ensure the flag is connected safely.”

Cr Owen said she would continue to replace the flag and would not be deterred from showing “the utmost respect for our flag, our freedom and democracy, and those who have been in service for our nation”.

“The thefts have been reported to police and local residents and businesses will be watching out,” Cr Owen said.

“Any residents noticing suspicious activity at the flagpoles in this or any other location are encouraged to contact police immediately.

“I say to the thieves — you should be ashamed of yourselves.”