Sunday, February 16, 2025

Railway seeks help after theft

Recent stories

The Victorian Goldfields Railway (VGR) is asking the public for assistance to find stolen vintage equipment and will be sourcing funds after a devastating break-in last week. Castlemaine Police were called out to Muckleford Station after a VGR volunteer worker discovered the theft of equipment and railway fittings worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, which had occurred some time between 9am on Wednesday 15 January and 12pm on Thursday 16 January.

Leading Senior Constable Wayne Rowe said: “Offenders have broken into the old station in Muckleford and have stolen historic tools, toolboxes, sleepers and steel, possibly for the metal.”

VGR President Rob Lee described the stolen items, which included signalling equipment, track components and other infrastructure items, as “invaluable” and vital for the safe operation of the railway. He explained that some of the objects, such as the staff ticket boxes, might seem like curiosities but they were in regular use at VGR as a safe working tool. Rob said they could not be easily sold without being recognised.

Despite the vintage appeal of some of the stolen goods, they did not seem to be the primary target. Both the police and VGR noted that the removal of track components and fittings required large machinery and vehicles, which the VGR described as “…indicating a well-planned operation.” Rob highlighted the practical as well as monetary value of the materials. “These items are specialised pieces of railway infrastructure and while they may have been stolen for scrap, the impact on us is significant.”

The VGR reported that this is the third burglary in 18 months and said it is further ramping up security measures. Its dedicated and hardworking volunteers, who are dismayed by the incident, will continue fundraising while planned track works are likely to be delayed by the loss. “We’re gonna have to buy replacements and that will involve real money,” Rob said, adding that potential financial donors should contact VGR. “We’re probably looking at running an appeal.”

LSC Rowe confirmed that police will pursue the offenders. “The Central Goldfields Criminal Investigations Unit will investigate,” he said, reminding members of the public with information about crimes to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Trains will continue to run and the VGR said it remains committed to providing an unforgettable experience for all who visit, however, Rob lamented: “As a not-for-profit, volunteer-run heritage railway, this is a real kick in the teeth.”

Call Crimestoppers on: 1800 333 000. To make a donation to VGR email: fundraising@vgr.com.au.  

Tarrangower Times 24 January 2025

This article appeared in the  Tarrangower Times, 24 January 2025.


KEEP IN TOUCH

Sign up for updates from Australian Rural & Regional News

Manage your subscription

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

For all the news from the Tarrangower Times, go to https://www.tarrangowertimes.com.au/