Gumbuya vandals

By Justin Robertson
THE operators of Gumbuya Park have been left shell-shocked after intruders rampaged through the popular tourist park.
The thieves stole two motor karts, let off flares, cut padlocks off fences and rammed a side entry gate over the Easter weekend in what was described by the park’s manager as a “malicious act”.
It’s the sixth break-in within five months at the attraction, leaving manager Claire Snowden worried the most recent attack was “targeted.”
“They were out to wreak havoc,” she said.
“This was the worst break-in so far and they seem to be getting progressively worse – we’re just grateful they didn’t harm the wildlife we have here.
“I’m hoping local residents know something about this and will come forward to help us get the cars back and put an end to those responsible.”
The intruders used a car – or truck – to pulverise the Brew Road side gate entry after cutting the wire fence and padlocks.
Once inside the property they took joyrides on toboggans, set off a handful of fire extinguishers then made off with two blue twisted karts – yet to be recovered – believed to be worth $3500 each.
They caused an estimated $12,000 worth of damage.
Ms Snowden, who has managed the park with her husband Gordon since September last year, said while each break-in has been at the same side gate entrance, they had tried to increase security measures by installing floodlights facing the gate and security cameras.
“To install a more advanced security system we’d be looking at paying something like $20,000, out of our own pocket,” she said.
“We are also looking at the idea of a patrolling security guard at night with a dog, like a German Shepherd.”
Before taking over as manager, Ms Snowden said the park had only recorded two break-ins in the past 30 years, but had now recorded its sixth within five months including one in December, three in January this year, one in February and the latest coming more than a week ago.
“It is a little bit scary having them on our property in the dark late at night,” she said.
We just want the public to come forward and help us out with any information.”
Financially, Ms Snowden said the park was facing one of its most difficult periods coming off a less than productive summer and with two less karts now, park-goers faced a 90-minute wait over the Easter weekend to drive the blue motor karts.
Leading Senior Constable Jason Fritzlaff from the Cardinia Crimes Investigation Unit (CIU) is urging the public to come forward with information on the two blue motor karts still yet to be recovered.
“We are trying to find out where the offenders have taken these vehicles to and what they are going to be used for,” he said.
“It’s still in a very preliminary stage of the investigation.”
Police caught the four youths responsible for the first break-in back in December last year.
They were prosecuted and forced to pay $4500 in damages.