Four thefts were reported in September alone, marking a sharp escalation on the average of about one reported diesel theft from a rural property each month during the past year.
Campaspe police Acting Inspector Damian Keegan said while police had not identified an emerging crime trend or particular hotspot, fuel theft remained a serious concern for farmers and landowners.
“During September, there was a noticeable increase, with four separate reports received,” he said.
“At this stage, all reported offences remain unsolved.”
The thefts have been scattered across Campaspe Shire rather than concentrated in one location, but police are urging farmers, including those around Rochester, to remain vigilant.
With fuel critical to almost every aspect of a farming operation, Insp. Keegan said thieves could inflict damage well beyond the value of the diesel they stole.
“The theft of even relatively small quantities can result in significant financial loss, disruption to operations and additional costs associated with improving security measures,” he said.
The thefts come as primary producers continue to grapple with cost-of-living pressures and high fuel prices.
But catching those responsible can be particularly difficult in isolated rural areas.
Insp. Keegan said offences on farms sometimes went undetected for hours, days or even weeks, costing investigators crucial opportunities to gather CCTV, forensic evidence, witness accounts or information about suspicious vehicles.
“The earlier police become aware of an incident, the greater the opportunity to identify offenders and gather evidence,” he said.
Police are urging farmers to make their fuel supplies harder to target by securing tanks, fitting lockable caps and valves, improving lighting and considering CCTV.
They should also regularly check fuel levels, secure property access points and keep accurate records of fuel use.
Fuel theft is just one part of the rural crime problem confronting police, with machinery, livestock, tools and agricultural equipment also targeted, alongside shed burglaries, trespassing and unlawful hunting.
Insp Keegan said recent changes to counter operating hours at Echuca Police Station had freed up more officers for frontline duties across Campaspe overnight, including rural patrols.
Police are also calling on residents to report suspicious vehicles, unfamiliar people on properties or unusual activity near fuel tanks as soon as they see it.
“The community continues to be our best eyes and ears,” Insp. Keegan said.
“The sooner police become aware of an incident, the better the chance of identifying offenders, gathering evidence and preventing further offending.”
Anyone who sees a crime occurring should call 000. Information can be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, while non-urgent offences can be reported through the Police Assistance Line.
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