By JESSE GRAHAM
POLICE are searching for a van stolen from a Lilydale charity earlier this month that was spotted driving through the Yarra Valley last week.
The van, a 2003 Toyota HiAce, was taken from Lilydale homelessness and poverty charity, Holy Fools, on Sunday 22 March, along with thousands of dollars in electronics and items from the group’s building.
An iMac computer, three printers, the building’s phone system, 10 backpack beds for homeless people, food, four slabs of soft drink and even the bin and the vacuum cleaner were taken from the Swansea Road church.
Lilydale Police Leading Senior Constable Scott Papeneux told the Mail that the van had been spotted in Healesville – once on Monday 23 March and twice the following day.
Unfortunately, once police officers had made it to the area, the van – which has distinct branding on the front, back and sides – had already gone.
The van had been used by Holy Fools to deliver food to the homeless, and contained blankets at the time of its theft.
Holy Fools chief executive, Neal Taylor, said he was disappointed that the thieves didn’t simply approach the business if they were in need of food, shelter or assistance.
“Initially, I was quite upset and angry, but now I’ve just come to accept it,” he said.
“It was a pity that these guys didn’t make an effort to either come to us or ask us for food – we would have helped them out as much as we could.
“It’s a shame that they felt they had to rob us to satisfy their own needs, and it’s going to affect so many other people as well.”
Mr Taylor said that, luckily, the business had insurance that should cover most of the lost items, but that the theft was still a major inconvenience.
“At least it’s a minor trip, not a complete setback,” he said.
Yarra Ranges Crime Investigation Unit is investigating the incident and anyone with information is urged to call 9739 2300 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone spotting the van is asked to call triple-zero immediately.
