THE Country Women’s Association (CWA) rooms on Town Green were broken into during the early hours of Wednesday 3 December, in an act that has left members disappointed but determined to keep up their Christmas spirit.
In addition to significant theft, the rooms were left damaged,
“In the lead-up to Christmas, the break-in was a blow to our branch,” said President Jill Adams.
“Members had worked so hard to make Christmas craft, food, jams and relishes for the Christmas market (held on Friday) and to see the destruction all around them was disheartening.”
Electrical equipment was stolen or damaged, as was furniture and other merchandise.
Once members had reported the incident to police, the CWA State Office, and strata management of the Quay North building on Horton Street, they cleaned-up, took stock and still managed to open the tearooms on Friday.
That afternoon they backed up again with a market stall at the Christmas Fair on Town Square.
Some of the handicrafts and food that had been prepared for the stall were stolen or damaged, but members were determined to go-ahead and be positive about making a difference.
Handicraft Officer Janis Miles said they were pleased with the market takings.
”We had a lovely time chatting with people and we took almost $1000, which makes it worthwhile.”
Profits from the day go to helping those less fortunate in Port Macquarie – particularly women and children.
Inquiries into the incident are continuing, according to the Mid North Coast Police District.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, quoting reference E86186157.
By Pauline CAIN
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