POLICE BEAT: Help needed to find local thief

Here's what the St Arnaud police have been up to.

POLICE are asking the community to help identify a person they caught on CCTV last week.

The man allegedly accessed a charity clothing premises on Napier Street, St Arnaud last Monday morning.

At around 1.40am, the male entered through the rear gate of the property from Crone Lane, climbed over a locked gate to access a secure area, where it is alleged items were stolen.

He is described as between 160–165cm tall, skinny build and aged between 25 and 35 years-old.

He was wearing black track pants, a hoodie with wording on the front similar to ‘Thrasher’ and waterproof high ankle type boots.

If you think you may know this person, please get in contact with police

Reports can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or St Arnaud Police on 5495 1000.

Concerns around farm thefts

POLICE are increasingly concerned and disappointed by the recent rise in thefts targeting rural and remote properties across our community.

St Arnaud senior sergeant Tim Thomson said these incidents are not only causing significant financial loss but also impacting the sense of safety and security that is so valued in our rural areas.

“We understand the hard work and investment that goes into maintaining farming properties, and we recognise the frustration and distress these offences cause,” he said.

“We are actively investigating reported incidents and increasing patrols where possible.

“We also encourage property owners to review their security measures, report suspicious activity promptly, and ensure valuable equipment is properly secured and recorded.

Senior Sergeant Thomson said community vigilance would play a vital role in preventing crime.

“By working together and sharing information, we can help deter offenders and protect our rural and remote areas,” Senior Sergeant Thomson said.

“If you notice suspicious behaviour or have information that may assist police, please contact us immediately.

If you witness crime actually happening, always call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Machinery damaged at Rich Avon West

OVERNIGHT on February 17, a Council grader and tractor parked near Banyena Silo Road in Rich Avon West were damaged and essential equipment stolen.

Tools, a water tank, work lights and fire extinguishers were removed from the machinery along with a toolbox and 300 litres of diesel.

Counterfeit money at shop

POLICE are reminding local business owners to stay vigilant after reports of counterfeit money being used at shops across the area.

A quick reference counterfeit detection guide is available from the Reserve Bank of Australia website.

A copy can also be obtained from your local police station.

Tips for business owners:

Remind staff to carefully check large denomination notes.
Report suspicious transactions immediately to Victoria Police.
Do not return suspected counterfeit notes to the customer.

If you receive a suspicious note, keep it safe and contact Victoria Police on 000 (for urgent situations) or your local station’s non-urgent line) with details of the transaction.

Staying alert helps protect our local businesses and keeps the Victoria community safe from counterfeit activity.

Forced entry at Bayena shed

OFFENDERS have forced their way into a a shed on Donald–Stawell Road, Banyena between 11:30am and 7pm on February 21.

They also attempted to gain access to a second shed on the same property.

Vehicles were tampered with during the incident.

Theft at Lord Nelson Park

OFFENDERS targeted a sporting club in Dunstan Street, St Arnaud, during the night of February 17.

General News