By Tyler Wright
Belgrave police are investigating the theft of a woodchipper in Emerald on Saturday 21 October.
Investigators have been told approximately four to five unknown offenders arrived at a premises on Butterfield Road in a white tipper truck and a black Toyota Landcruiser about 3pm, a Victoria Police spokesperson told the Star Mail.
“The offenders cut through the lock and chain linking the gates to gain access to the property,” the spokesperson said.
“It’s believed the offenders have reversed up to a woodchipper, cutting the lock and hitching it to their vehicle.
“The offenders dumped a load of concrete from the tipper truck before attempting to steal an excavator when they were disturbed.”
The offenders then fled the scene in both vehicles.
Owner of Cut & Catch Tree Services, Matthew Slockwitch, was devastated and completely gutted after learning the machine was stolen.
“It’s a huge loss for us and has made us have to reschedule jobs,” he said.
Mr Slockwitch has owned the business for the past 20 years, servicing the Dandenong Ranges and Yarra Valley areas.
The woodchipper is a Bandit 65 and values at $20,000, the Victoria Police spokesperson said.
“Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppervic.com.au,” the spokesperson said.
