Robbed: Rainbow Riders’ Rikki Raadsveld with one of the charity’s horses and a chain cut to steal a water pump.
By John Van Klaveren
BURGLARS have hit one of Geelong’s smallest charities a second time in less than six months, according to its executive officer.
Rainbow Riders’ Rikki Raadsveld said the charity was unable to replace the stolen items, worth $3000.
Thieves broke into the children’s classroom last weekend, taking a 101cm widescreen Hisense television and a 48cm computer monitor, she said.
An adjacent Honda fire emergency water pump was also stolen.
Ms Raadsveld said the fire pump was crucial safety equipment, connected to a water tank and trailer for the fire season.
Rainbow Riders runs unique horse-based programs for disadvantaged and disabled children.
Ms Raadsveld said the latest thefts had left the charity with total losses of $13,000.
“We had two motorcycles worth $10,000 taken less than six months ago.
“We’re only a small charity and simply don’t have the funds to replace any of this equipment.
“Most of our limited funding is directed first and foremost into the actual programs for children and the impact of this break-in will be wide ranging.
“It will mean we have to curtail some programs because the screens were critical for the multi-media program. We use it on wet weather days and as part of the indoor programs where children record their activities, learning experiences and create progress journals.”
Ms Raadsveld said anyone with information should phone Leading Senior Constable Matt Oliver at Geelong Police Station on 5225 3237 or Rainbow Riders on 5264 1175.
