Noosa & District Landcare Group is implementing comprehensive security measures
following a series of targeted vehicle thefts and attempted break-ins at their Pomona
facilities, with police investigations reportedly close to a breakthrough.
Phillip Moran, the general manager of Noosa & District Landcare Group (Pavilion
Street, Pomona) and the Hinterhub in Station Street, Pomona, revealed that despite
the organisation’s 33-year history of environmental stewardship in the region, recent
months have seen unprecedented security challenges at their Pavilion Street depot.
“A Toyota tray back 4WD was stolen on 20 November from our depot in Pavilion
Street,” Phillip said. “The perpetrator stole all of the keys [vehicles and locks] as well
as the Toyota.”
The situation escalated when, despite initial security upgrades, a white 2017 Toyota
Troop Carrier was taken on 6 January.
“We were in the process of installing new locks, motion sensor cameras, numerous
security cameras, and changing all the keys when this occurred,” he explained,
noting that the Christmas break had delayed the implementation of enhanced
security measures.
The environmental organisation produces 250,000 plants annually and manages
crucial projects including the ‘Keeping it in Kin Kin’ remediation project, the riparian
restoration of Mary River properties and the large reafforestation project in Yurol and
Ringtail state forests as they transition to national park. The valuable services
provided by the Landcare group also incorporate thermal camera and drone work,
fauna surveys, native plant identification and training.
The recent thefts have caused significant financial impacts and extra security costs
for the organisation. “Costs have been considerable,” Phillip said. “Insurance has
been quite good, however, in terms of cash, probably $40,000. You need to add all
the staff time dedicated to prevention and reporting.”
A recent attempted theft on Saturday 1 February provided a breakthrough when the
intruder was caught on camera. “We have good quality vision of the would-be thief
which has been provided to police,” Phillip said. “We have had all the vehicle locks
re-keyed and installed vehicle trackers on vehicles. If [an unauthorised person
attempts to start a] vehicle, we get a notification and can be here in minutes. The
security cameras also record vision for a week.”
The incident yielded crucial evidence when the perpetrator dropped wire cutters and
keys from the November theft, establishing a direct link between the incidents.
Local law enforcement has been actively involved, with both local police and
forensics teams investigating. “Forensics officers have been here and will be testing
for DNA evidence. [A recent] update suggests the police are very close to making an
arrest,” Phillip said.
The organisation, which operates environmental initiatives throughout the Sunshine
Coast region, including partnerships with Seqwater and the Mary River Catchment
Coordinating Committee, has responded with extensive security upgrades. These
include vehicle trackers with instant notification systems, Invisi-Gard stainless mesh
on windows, enhanced lighting, and additional security cameras.
“We are going to be installing steel, concrete-filled bollards around the compound
which will not allow unauthorised access or egress of vehicles,” Phillip said. The
organisation has also notified neighbouring Noosa District State High School’s
Pomona Campus about the incidents.
Despite these challenges, Noosa & District Landcare Group continues its vital
environmental work, including tree planting, weed removal, environmental education,
and operating the Hinterhub artisan centre in Station Street – demonstrating
resilience in the face of these setbacks.
By Sarah Rollins