General News
3 June, 2025
Sheep thefts investigated
Goldfields Crime Investigation Unit detectives are confident someone from the public can help after $12,000 worth of merino sheep were stolen from a property in Strathlea last month.
Police have been told four men were seen herding the sheep into a light-blue coloured enclosed trailer at Browns Track, towed by a Iveco dual rear wheel white van, about 8.30 am on Wednesday, May 21.
Images of a similar van and trailer, plus digitally generated images of the three men based on witness’ descriptions, have been released in the hope someone will come forward with further information.
Strathlea farmer and volunteer firefighter Tony Butler told the ABC his 80 merino sheep were stolen while he was protesting the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund in Melbourne.
“You feel used, you feel defiled, you feel disrespected,” he said.
“That was just the icing on the cake, to come home and find someone had been helping themselves to your stock.”
Detectives are investigating the possibility the stolen stock were transported to Melbourne or its outer suburbs.
Anyone who recognises the men pictured, vehicles used or has information concerning the stolen sheep is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au