The community is urged to be on the lookout after thieves stole thousands of dollars' worth of lifesaving equipment from the Nethercote volunteer fire brigade.
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NSW Rural Fire Service operations officer for the Far South Coast Daniel Osborne said the break-in and theft was discovered on Wednesday, September 23, and it's believed the perpetrator/s gained entry to the brigade's fire shed on Back Creek Rd some time within the past 48 hours.
Mr Osborne estimated around $15,000 worth of equipment was stolen in the break-in, including portable radio equipment, an automatic external defibrillator, a chainsaw and satellite navigation devices.
"It's incredibly disappointing for an individual to take any items from a volunteer organisation," he said.
"However, it's extremely disappointing given what this region has been through in the last 12 months.
"The volunteers of this small brigade have been out assisting their community and putting their own lives at risk to save others - giving their best to their community - so this is very concerning to us.
"It's very disheartening."
Mr Osborne said police have been notified and are investigating.
"If any community members have information on this incident and the stolen items, we encourage them to contact Crime Stoppers," he said.
Information provided to CrimeStoppers NSW can be confidential. Call 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
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