Castlemaine Police are seeking information from the public following a series of incidents where rubbish and recycle bins were mowed down by a vehicle across the township.
Leading Senior Constable Wayne Cairnes said Mount Alexander Shire Council contacted them regarding the incidents, which took place sometime overnight on Tuesday evening/Wednesday morning on January 10-11 and on Tuesday evening/Wednesday morning on January 17-18.
Bins in Elizabeth Street, Johnstone Street and Gaffney Street were targeted resulting in thousands of dollars worth of damage and leaving rubbish strewn over footpaths, nature strips and gardens resulting in an extensive clean up.
“Ratepayers pay a fee for rubbish collection and bin maintenance and this service has now been disrupted and residents face the inconvenience of lodging a request with council to have their bins replaced,” LSC Cairnes said.
“Not to mention the clean up for contractors Veolia and local residents all because of someone’s stupidity and reckless driving.
“This person doesn’t deserve a driver’s licence.”
Police are aware some incidents may not have been reported.
“We encourage any other victims to report the matter to police or Mount Alexander Shire Council,” LSC Cairnes said.
“This requires a community approach, be vigilant. If you know this car report it, if you see this car report it.
“By working together we can identify the driver and achieve a result.
“To the driver, consider yourself on notice,” the officer said.
Witnesses describe the offending vehicle as a white F250 with a light bar on the top of the cabin.
“It has a bullbar and it has a toy bulldog or animal in the centre of the bonnet,” LSC Cairnes said.
“The alleged offender could face criminal damage charges in relation to the bins, traffic offences and potential charges under hoon legislation.
“They could be facing vehicle impoundment, drivers licence suspension and associated court costs.
“That will be a very expensive day in court for some random acts of stupidity,” he said.
Anyone with information about these incidents is urged to contact Leading Senior Constable Wayne Cairnes at the Castlemaine Police Station on 5470 4100.
