The revival of the Brimbank Bicycle Education Centre has suffered a setback after thieves stole 10 bikes from its Keilor Downs site last week.
Senior Constable Matthew Le, of the Brimbank criminal investigation unit, said the offenders broke into the site some time between 6pm on Sunday, March 22, and 9am the following day by cutting the side fence.
They then forced their way into the shed from which 10 bikes, including a red Gomier tricycle used by kids with disabilities, were taken.
A red tool box and some tools were also stolen.
Senior Constable Le said it was unclear how many people were involved in the break-in.
He appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
“That area is isolated. There were no cameras, it’s occurred overnight, so we don’t have any witnesses at this stage,” he said.
“We’re looking for any information from anyone who might have seen that tricycle or come across it.”
Brimbank Central Rotary Club, Taylors Lakes Lions Club and Brimbank State Emergency Service have been working together since August last year in reviving the former Green Gully Traffic Safety Centre.
They are planning to spend about $40,000 in the next three years fixing up the site.
Rebranded as the Brimbank Bicycle Education Centre, the facility provides bicycle and road-safety education for children aged three and older, including children with special needs.
Children from disability service Scope in St Albans use the centre every fortnight.
Brimbank Central Rotary secretary David Bennett was furious about the break-in.
“It’s horrible,” he said.
“The disabled groups really rely on those tricycles, they’re specially built and worth nearly $1000 each.”
Police are requesting that anyone with information on the break-in call the Brimbank criminal investigation unit on 9313 3333 or CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.
