In the early hours of Sunday 1st October, callous thieves broke into our compound at Westgate Park in Port Melbourne. Then tragically, three weeks later our compound was broken into a second time. The thieves were so brazen that they pulled the compound gates off their hinges because they couldn’t break through the chain lock.
They stole our trailer, water tank and hoses (crucial equipment we use to irrigate the park), as well as tools and other items belonging to the Friends of Westgate Park volunteer group.
The loss of this equipment is a devastating blow to the team of volunteers who have spent many hours planting new seedlings throughout the park. Without our trailer and water tank, we don’t have the ability to provide additional water. Without enough water, many of the park’s new seedlings might not survive the expected hot and dry summer.
Unfortunately, Parks Victoria’s insurance does not cover our equipment, so we have no choice but to replace them on our own – that’s why we need your help! As a not-for-profit organization we have some funds to replace the smaller items stolen, but we are seeking support to raise an additional $5,500 to purchase a replacement cage trailer and a heavy-duty wheel lock (to stop any future thieves!).
If you have ever visited Westgate Park or Bili Nursery, are a previous or current volunteer, live locally or even just wish to support the amazing rehabilitation and biodiversity work we do, please chip in a contribution to help us replace our stolen equipment. Any amount – $20, $50, $100, or more – will make a massive difference!
Thank you so much for your support! Please share this with anyone who may also wish to help!