Echuca police Acting Inspector Damian Keegan.
Photo by
Ivy Jensen
Copper theft may not be a huge problem in the Rochester district, but the impacts are being felt locally.
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Just last weekend, copper theft on Melbourne's rail network forced Echuca and Rochester passengers on to replacement buses, as authorities crack down on the growing crime.
Crime Stoppers Victoria and Victoria Police have launched a statewide campaign, Copper Theft: It's More Than Metal, aimed at tackling a 175 per cent rise in copper thefts across Victoria since 2018.
While the crime remains relatively uncommon in Campaspe, with about 13 reports recorded this year, Campaspe Acting Inspector Damian Keegan said its effects could be felt well beyond the immediate crime scene.
“Copper theft impacts us all,” he said.
“Copper stolen from the train network north of Melbourne can affect train passengers in Echuca and Rochester and beyond.”
Most local incidents have involved copper stolen from remote power pole sites, particularly around areas such as Torrumbarry.
Acting Insp Keegan said thieves were targeting infrastructure that communities relied on every day, including power, telecommunications and transport networks.
“You have things like disruption to the railway network, which is of great concern,” he said.
“For us, it’s more the impact on our economy and our ability to use services such as calling 000 and using public transport.”
According to Victoria Police, thieves are increasingly targeting power poles, pits, substations and other infrastructure containing copper, which can fetch up to $20 a kilogram.
However, authorities say the damage left behind often costs far more than the value of the stolen metal, with copper theft estimated to cost the Australian economy $100 million each year.
Copper theft on Melbourne’s rail network can impact Echuca train passengers.
Hospitals, public transport services, communication networks, sporting facilities and street lighting can all be affected when critical infrastructure is damaged.
Acting Insp Keegan said the consequences could also extend to public safety.
In some areas, copper theft can disable heating systems designed to prevent black ice forming on road overpasses, increasing the risk of serious crashes.
“While copper isn’t one of the most commonly stolen items and is fairly rare in Campaspe, the consequences can be significant,” Acting Insp Keegan said.
Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said community information was crucial in helping police disrupt the offending.
“Everyone has a role to play,” she said.
“Crime Stoppers gives Victorians a safe and anonymous way to report suspicious activity.”
Acting Insp Keegan urged residents to report any suspicious activity around power, rail or telecommunications infrastructure.
“If you see something, say something,” he said.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers anonymously online at crimestoppersvic.com.au or by calling 1800 333 000.
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