Gives us a break plea from camp

By Kath Gannaway
TWO canoes stolen from a school camp in Yarra Junction has prompted a plea of “give us a break” from camp managers.
Glyn Mahon and Marcell Edmonds, managers at Adanac Lodge in Hoddles Road, say the theft is the latest in a series of incidents which are causing problems for staff and putting pressure on the groups attending.
“We have had a problem with local young people coming in and annoying groups and just generally being mischievous,” he said.
The camp run by the not-for-profit Christian Youth Camps caters for school, church and other groups.
Mr Mahon said what might seem like innocent pranks to local youths is causing consternation to groups.
“You can understand how any parent would feel having someone come up and sitting with a group – even if it’s as a bit of a dare,” he said.
He appealed to the troublemakers to think about what they are doing.
“As much as you might think it is fun, just give other people who are struggling a break. We’d really appreciate it,” he said.
The theft of the canoes last Thursday night was one more setback.
Thieves cut chains securing two of five canoes on the property.
The cost of replacing the plastic canoes, one red and one yellow, is $2000.
Mr Mahon said it might be that they had been used for a joy ride and then ditched and he asked the community to keep an eye out for them.
“Parents might like to check out their backyards as well,” Mr Mahon said.
Adanac is offering a $100 reward for the return of the canoes – “no questions asked”.
“We really can’t afford to replace them, so we’d just like to get them back,” Mr Mahon said.
Anyone with information can email the camp on adanacmanager@cyc.org.au or phone on 5967 1594.