According to police the Youth Off The Streets trailer was locked and secured at Kennard Park at 7.30pm on Wednesday, October 18. It was checked again by security around 9pm who confirmed the trailer was still fully locked.

Between 9pm and 5am the following morning persons have gained access into the trailer via the front door, stealing items including X-Boxes, Playstations, games, Apple TV units, iPads and a Sony TV.

Fingerprint and forensic examinations have been carried out and police are waiting on results.

Mayor Shields said he was disappointed to receive a phone call notifying him of the incident to which he attended to make arrangements to assist YOTS staff. Council staff were called in to tow the trailer to its new location at Rygate Park.

“What is particularly disheartening is this has happened to a very good organisation who are only trying to do good in the community,” he said.

“The community has shown they are very annoyed and angry about it, so it is pleasing to know the community is behind Father Riley’s organisation.

“I’ve written to him, expressed my total sympathies and I particularly want to make it known to Father Riley’s organisation that Dubbo Regional Council is very, very keen to work with him in the long term.

“I and the whole council totally, utterly value his contribution to Wellington. It’s something we desperately need and frankly I’m going to use this as an opportunity now for further dialogue for Youth Off The Streets.

“We need to turn this very sad event into a positive and i’m certainly keen to do that.”

Cr Shields said he was pleased to see council staff spring into action to assist the organisation.

“I’m extremely pleased that the community understands the importance of Youth Off The Streets,” he said.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Dubbo Police Station (6883 1599) or Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000.