A NIGHT of senseless vandalism in Graham Street, Wonthaggi has left at least two local shopkeepers appalled at what they fear were random acts of vandalism.
“There’s no sense behind it,” said Jodie Williams, owner of Gypsy Dreaming.
Police are calling for CCTV camera footage after two shopfronts were smashed on the same night between 7pm and 6.30am on Tuesday, May 13 and Wednesday, May 14.
The front glass door to Gypsy Dreaming was broken but the suspect failed to gain entry.
Further down Graham Street, a side entrance window was shattered at Mitchell and Co Traditional Butchers but again nothing was taken.
“The shop was empty,” said butcher Brandon Bull.
Both shopfronts are likely to cost many hundreds of dollars to repair.
“Gypsy Dreaming is a special place for me and my customers,” said Ms Williams. “We’ve been in business for 10 years and never had any trouble before.”
Selling dresses and skirts made from natural fibres, lace, scents, books and journals, crystals and handmade beanies, scarves and woollens Gypsy Dreaming has a loyal following.
“It was a violent act of vandalism that we’re seeing more and more of,” said Jodie.
Brandon Bull from Mitchell and Co. Traditional Butchers was just as surprised.
“It’s never happened before that I can remember,” said Brandon.
“We work hard for what we have here. I guess there’s not much police can do.”
Encouraged by the support they’ve received from customers both businesses were trading as normal the next day once their premises had been secured.
“It cost me $500 to repair the door,” said Jodie Williams.
“There’s a lot more violence about the town,” said Brandon Bull.
“It’s just not safe late at night.”
Investigations into a series of reports of damage in Graham Street remain ongoing and police are working to establish whether the two incidents are related to any other reports of damage in the same area.
In the first instance a front glass display window was smashed and an aluminium door frame damaged according to police and the offender or offenders also caused damage to another store window close by, but no entry was gained and nothing was stolen.
Anyone who witnessed either incident or has information which may be useful to police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at crimestoppersvic.com.au or contact Wonthaggi Police Station on 5671 4100.
