Mixed blessings for van theft duo

By Kath Gannaway
THE RETURN of Warburton couple Peter and Leonie Allen’s stolen Tarago van has brought mixed blessings.
The 20-year-old van was stolen from Park Road in Warburton overnight on Tuesday 29 July.
As reported in The Mail last week, the bitter tragedy of the theft was that a hand-crafted cabinet made by their son Gerrard was in the van.
Gerrard died on New Year’s Eve and the cabinet was on its way to his brother in New South Wales.
The Allens were heartbroken, but hoping for its return.
Also in the van were a set of Mr Allen’s golf clubs and Mrs Allen’s Bible – both gifts with sentimental value.
The van was found at Millgrove Reserve late on Monday 4 August, but the thieves had taken anything they believed to be of value – the cabinet, golf clubs and the van’s stereo CD player.
“The only thing they left was the Bible,” Mrs Allen said.
The van had travelled about 100 kilometres and Mrs Allen said she and her husband spent last week visiting second-hand dealers within the radius but had no luck.
“Warburton police had the van dusted for fingerprints and have been very supportive and encouraging and we are very grateful for their interest and support,” Mrs Allen said.
She said while it was wonderful to get the Bible back, they remain hopeful the cabinet and the golf clubs will be found.
“I live in hope,” Mrs Allen told the Mail on Thursday.
“It would have been my son’s 37th birthday today … so maybe … perhaps we’ll get a phone call today.”
Warburton police confirmed another Tarago van had been stolen in the area on the same night last week indicating the motive for the thefts was transport.
Senior Constable Tony Pagels said neither vehicle was damaged – except for the thefts.
“It’s unfortunate Mr and Mrs Allen were making the trip and whoever has stolen the van has just taken advantage of the opportunity to get more money from it,” he said.
Anyone with information can contact Warburton Police on 5966 2006, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or the Allens on 0409 018 883.