General News
21 September, 2023
Asteria disappointed by “selfish” theft at the res
In a “selfish” act, Asteria’s property near the Goldfields Reservoir was broken into earlier this month, leaving management frustrated with the loss of more than $15,000 worth of items. On September 4, a break in was reported at the disability...
In a “selfish” act, Asteria’s property near the Goldfields Reservoir was broken into earlier this month, leaving management frustrated with the loss of more than $15,000 worth of items.
On September 4, a break in was reported at the disability support service’s under-development cafe, formerly known as Ripples on the Res, on 91 Derby Road — with a large number of appliances stolen, including a carousel wood fire heater, lengths of flue, an air conditioning unit as well as a compressor.
“In my opinion it would appear that it was well planned as the heater and flue would have been both awkward and heavy to remove,” Asteria Services CEO Annie Constable said.
“They knew what they were doing — they disconnected the split system, which was new, and the big compression unit from outside was taken as well.
“It’s very hard and disappointing. It’s such a senseless, selfish act and such acts do not add any value to our community.”
Following the event, the organisation has installed security cameras on the property and has barred all doors.
“We’ve taken necessary steps but the faster we get on and build that space, the better,” Ms Constable said.
“It used to be a cafe called Ripples and we’re turning it back into something similar for our supported employees to work there and gain additional skills — we just want it to be a great place for the community.
“It’s not the nicest feeling when we’re just trying to support the community and then this happens.”
Ms Constable is encouraging anyone with information about the theft to get in touch with the authorities.
The Maryborough Police can be contacted on 5460-3300 — people can also get in touch with Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime