The group had been collecting empty cans under the new Return and Earn Container Deposit Scheme to help fund activities such as attending the Australian Scout Jamboree in South Australia next year.
But the storage cage housing the empty cans and bottles was broken into last month, putting the group back around $300.
Scouts Central Coast Lakes District Commissioner Brian Perrem said a scout group leader had caught a male in the cage taking the containers.
“When he was caught, the man quickly left, however further cans were stolen from the cage over the following days,” Mr Perrem said. “The money we raise goes towards making Scouts more affordable and the theft may mean local families need to pay more.”
The group is aiming to raise $8,000 towards jamboree costs and while it has insurance, the theft is not covered.
A security camera aimed at the cage has since been installed. Member of the Legislative Council Taylor Martin recently met some of the scouts and leaders on site.
Mr Martin said Scouts do wonderful work in youth development and are treasured on this part of the Central Coast.
“It is unfortunate that some members of our community think it is okay to steal containers that our local scouts have worked hard to collect,” he said.
Mr Martin said the scheme encourages groups such as Scouts to collect empty eligible containers and redeem them at an approved collection point.
“Return and Earn is a win for the environment and an opportunity for Central Coast community groups to also benefit,” Mr Martin said.
“Not only are Scouts helping to reduce litter on our streets and in our waterways, but they are raising funds while doing it.”
You can donate cans at the Scout Group club house in Levitt Street, Wyong. If you have any information regarding the theft, contact Crime Stoppers on 1300 333 000.
