Thieves steal $25,000 worth of equipment from wetland volunteers
The Wetland Habitat (Paiwalla) Association appeals for help; plus police look into the theft of 98 merinos at Naturi.
A volunteer group at a River Murray wetland is reeling after the theft of a boat, a quad bike and thousands of dollars worth of equipment.
The Wetland Habitat Association is responsible for Paiwalla Wetland, 15 kilometres upstream from Murray Bridge on the river's eastern bank.
About two months ago, someone broke into the association’s shed at the wetland and took about $25,000 worth of equipment.
Along with the quad bike, boat and a trailer, the items stolen included a 300-litre spray tank, a generator, a fridge, power tools, binoculars, a first aid kit and even an electronic bat monitor, which would be useless to almost anyone else.
Association member Steve Scown urged anyone who saw or heard about any of the items to get in touch, or make a report to police.
There were other ways in which people could help, too, he said.
“If you have any equipment in the shed that is just collecting dust, Paiwalla would be interested if you would like to donate it to a worthy cause,” he said.
Gift cards and tax-deductible donations would also help the group cover the loss, he said.
- More information: Email paiwallawetland@gmail.com or visit www.paiwalla.org.au.
- Read more: River Murray's health is worsening, but Paiwalla volunteers are fighting the current
Merinos stolen at Naturi
Meanwhile, police are investigating the theft of 98 merino sheep from a property at Naturi, between Tailem Bend and Wynarka.
The animals, all tagged, were taken from a paddock on Kulde Road sometime between September 10 and March 30.
SA Police said stock theft was a serious crime.
They encouraged farmers to report any thefts, and to take steps to protect their livestock:
- Regularly check on your livestock
- Maintain good records, including proof of ownership
- Keep fences and gates secure and in good repair
- Connect any electic fences to an alarm which will sound if the fence is broken
- Consider having police checks done on new employees
Anyone with information about the theft should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestopperssa.com.au, anonymously if need be.
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