THE Blue Lake Public Golf Links has faced a $15,000 setback after thieves broke into the facility and stole a number of essential grounds-keeping tools.
The thieves jimmied open the greenskeeper shed between Wednesday night and Thursday morning and stole a lawnmower, a compressor, two chainsaws, two whipper snippers, tool sets and a heavy duty blower.
Thieves unsuccessfully tried to access to the fuel shed.
Blue Lake Golf Links Bar and Bistro owner Bill Burley said the cost to the facility could be up to $15,000.
“Between our repair bill and the cost of replacing the items, it will be a significant cost,” he said.
“There have been a lot of tools and accessories stolen but thankfully nothing has been done to the machinery that we know of at this stage.
“I am glad they did not get into the shed because there may have been repercussions or they may have loaded up the shed and torched it.
“There has been a lot going on with us and this is just not what we need right now.
“Everyone can say insurance will cover it, but it does make you lose a bit of faith in what you do.”
Mr Burley said costs would exceed beyond repairs to the shed and insurance fees, with the facility likely to invest in anti-theft measures for the greenskeeper shed.
“We will be looking at putting alarms and cameras on the shed now which is sad but it is the world we live in,” he said.
“That all costs money and again, something that is not good timing.”
The City Council-owned and controlled facility recently changed to a new operating model as of July 1 this year, with the club securing a one-year lease with four-year right of renewals.
The lease is contingent on key performance indicators and a detailed asset plan being developed by the club and council.
Mr Burley said the facility was working hard to meet council’s benchmarks but the theft was a devastating blow to the club.
He said the theft of the items would have a significant effect on operations at the facility in the short-term.
“We have a couple of big weekends coming up which we need those items for to tidy up the place, but we will try to borrow a few things,” he said.
“Someone has given us a compressor which is similar to the one that was stolen to use which is great.
“Our members have been fantastic since the takeover so we hope they will be able to help out.
“We now have to focus on getting the course ready without some of that essential machinery.
“Lately we have had some strong winds that have been knocking trees and greenery over and they need tidying up, so every day sort of bits and pieces we need to tidy the course up.
He urged members of the public to remain on the look out for the stolen items.
Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
