SECURITY cameras are being installed at the Kerang Lawn Tennis Club this week to ward off thieves who have struck twice in a fortnight.
Multiple offenders broke into the club house last Friday night by smashing a kitchen window in an exact repeat of the June 25 offence.
Club vice-president Wayne Hall said the offenders turned off a circuit breaker to disable a security light outside the Log Cabin, before breaking in under the cover of darkness.
This time, the offenders broke the lock of the fridge to gain access to alcohol belonging to the Northern District Football Umpires Association, making off with a haul valued at $400 and even smashing numerous bottles in the car park.
They also stole about $140 the association had started collecting for its White Ribbon Round efforts later this month, as well as forcing open the door to the tennis club’s office and riffling through change tins in the search for more cash.
Mr Hall said as with last time, the offenders unsuccessfully attempted to break into the bar of the Log Cabin – even though no alcohol is kept there – but this time they also tried to force open the roller door of the machinery storage shed.
Mr Hall said the club was extremely frustrated by the repeated targeting of a community organisation with humble resources.
“It is an added expense that we don’t need and we are disappointed that a local sports club has been targeted and we hope police can catch and deal with the offenders accordingly,” he said.
Mr Hall said security cameras were being installed, along with locks to prevent tampering with the circuit box.
Anyone with information about either break-in is asked to call Kerang Police on 5452 1955 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
