Bentleigh East community club rocked by brazen attacks

A Bentleigh East community club “giving people a place to call home” has been rocked by heartless thieves, who smashed into the building twice in a week and left a $30,000 damage bill.

John Dellar with the boarded up area next to the sliding door that was smashed by burglars.

A Bentleigh East community club “giving people a place to call home” has been rocked by heartless thieves, who smashed into the building twice in a week and left a $30,000 damage bill.

Three crooks targeted the South Oakleigh Club early on February 6 and again five days later, taking off with cash and an ATM.

General manager John Dellar said the thieves had used purpose-designed tools, including a jemmy bar with its ends ground down, to get in and out within four minutes before security guards arrived on the scene.

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“They were obviously all skilled in this trade and were completely covered in hoodies, scarfs on their faces and gloves,” he said.

The South Oakleigh Club had had two break-ins in a week causing $30k worth of damage. Picture: Penny Stephens

“They thought they’d have a better night out, but only managed to get a small amount of things, it’s more the damage that’s really disappointing.” The not-for-profit club spent $10,000 cleaning up from the first break in, before having to fork out another $20,000 when the thieves struck again.

Mr Dellar said it had affected the community deeply.

“It truly is a wonderful club and has a real suburban feel,” he said.

“We have 1600 members and to know so many families come for dinner is really heartening because that’s what clubs are about.

The South Oakleigh Club in Bentleigh East. Picture: Penny Stephens

“It gives people somewhere to call home, so they’re really upset too that it’s hurt their club.”

Police are reviewing CCTV footage and investigating the matter, while the club bolsters security at the site.

Mr Dellar said while insurance would cover most of the damage, it wasn’t the point.

“We’re still out of pocket until we pay the bills and get the money back, and this is money that should be used to enhance the club,” he said.

President Peter Russell said the thefts had affected the community.

“We’re not a rich club and no one is making a dollar — it all pours back into the community,” he said.

“It’s obviously disappointing and is a dampener.”

Police have been contacted for comment.

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