An estimated $20,000 worth of crucial and sentimental firefighting equipment has been stolen from a CFA in Melbourne‘s western suburbs.
Firefighting volunteers discovered the Werribee CFA had been ransacked on Christmas morning.
“It’s a real kick in the guts to be honest,” CFA lieutenant Rohan Rozzoli told 9News.
The thieves stole several hydrants and marshalling gear, which are crucial for firefighters during the state’s bushfire season.
The equipment is also used for the junior running team, who are competing next month against other volunteers across the state.
Police believe the burglars broke in around 9am last Thursday, but the break-in was only discovered yesterday morning, putting a dampener on Christmas festivities.
“A lot of this equipment has been grandfathered down through generations of firefighters and firefighter families,” Rozzoli said.
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“For many of the members this is very disappointing.”
Volunteers are now considering installing CCTV cameras to bolster security at the site.
But that cost would have to come straight from donations.
Rozzoli appealed to the thieves to return the equipment.
“Give it back to us in some capacity,” he said.
“We just want to get our kids back on the track, get the community around us and get back to what we do.”
