Cobram detectives are investigating the theft of sheep, valued between $30,000 and $35,000, from a property at Tungamah, northern Victoria.
Detective Sergeant Marcus Boyd said 181 South Suffolk-Merino cross lambs were allegedly stolen from the Lawrence Road property, sometime between September and December 20, last year.
“It’s a kick in the guts,” Det Sgt Boyd said.
‘Producers work hard enough, and you don’t like thieves getting around in the middle of the night, knocking off livestock.”
The lambs were “well-bred”, in good condition and were close to being ready for market.
They were all carrying orange ear tags.
The theft was discovered when the sheep were drafted for sale, after shearing on September 22.
Most of the flock went to the abattoirs at Bordertown, SA, while others went through the yards at Bendigo.
Det Sgt Boyd said the theft might be linked to an incident, in mid-November.
“There was an incident on November 14, when the owners found a mob of about 80, on the road,” Det Sgt Boyd said.
“That was a bit intriguing at the time
“They put them back in the paddock, but they checked all the fences and gates and couldn’t find any down.”
He said the sheep on the road might have been left behind, by the thieves.
“It’s something we are taking into account.”
Det Sgt Boyd said it appeared to be a professional job.
“You are looking at a thief who is well equipped, possibly with dogs and with the capacity to put that many animals on a vehicle,” he said.
“They are well versed in the stock game, someone who has access and can offload these lambs, straight to market or to the abattoirs.”
He said Moira shire had largely been isolated from stock theft, although he was aware of other incidents in neighbouring districts.
“Someone would know, there’s no doubt about that,” he said.
“Thieves like to talk, and people are happy to listen.”
Det Sgt Boyd said police would like to hear from anyone, personally or confidentially, who had information.
He said they could also contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Andrew Miller
I'm a general reporter with Stock & Land, with a special interest in irrigation issues. I completed my cadetship, with the Age, in 1980. Over my career, I've worked for ABC radio news (Mt Isa, Qld) and at provincial and suburban newspapers.
I'm a general reporter with Stock & Land, with a special interest in irrigation issues. I completed my cadetship, with the Age, in 1980. Over my career, I've worked for ABC radio news (Mt Isa, Qld) and at provincial and suburban newspapers.
