Football games at Arnolds Creek and Bridge Road recreation reserves were cancelled or relocated last week after thieves made off with copper electrical cabling for the second time in four weeks.
The incidents were the latest in a spate of thefts that have swept Melton, throwing out scheduling of games and training sessions for dozens of sports teams.
Last Wednesday’s under-9s games at Arnolds Creek Community Pavilion and Recreation Reserve were cancelled and the Melton Centrals senior teams were forced to play away on Sunday because there was no power.
Melton council has been working with police to investigate the thefts which have also occurred at MacPherson Park and Diggers Rest Recreation Reserve.
Riddle District Football Netball League headquarters, based at the Arnolds Creek reserve, was relocated to another office in Ballarat for the second time this month.
Operations manager Jordan Doyle said the thefts were frustrating.
“Club members had to make a mad rush down the clubrooms because they had food and drink in the fridges,” Mr Doyle said.
“Council can only do their best to reconnect us as soon as possible but it’s frustrating for everyone,” Mr Doyle said.
“We have no internet, no lights and no power to run fridges or anything in the canteen.”
Melton council’s recreation and youth manager Troy Scoble said council was “deeply frustrated” that children were missing out on sporting activities because of the thefts.
“Melton City Council is incredibly disappointed by the recent spate of copper thefts at recreation reserves across Melton.
“The Bridge Road Recreation Reserve is also out of action after it too was hit by copper thieves. Council is working with contractors to ensure the power to the facilities are restored quickly and disruption is minimised.”
Replacement is estimated to take about seven to 10 days, depending on the damage caused during the theft.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity is urged to call police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
