Organisers of the recent coates Rally Queensland are kicking up a stink over the apparent theft of two portable toilets that is set to cost the event almost $5000.
The lavatories were located in the Imbil forest for use by public, competitors and officials during the national motorsport event on 31 March – 1 April. Their disappearance was discovered by a crew sent to collect them after the event finished.
“There are millions of trees in the forest but we did the right thing and organised proper toilet facilities in order to meet the call of nature,” rally director Errol Bailey said.
“I can’t understand why anyone would want to steal a couple of lavs. Doesn’t everyone already have at least one at home?
“The police are aware of the theft but so far there isn’t even a sniff of a lead. If no-one steps forward to lift the lid on this business, we’re up for $4900 to pay for the replacement of the toilets.”
Mr Bailey asked anyone who has seen the stolen loos to contact Imbil police. Each has the word “coates” on the side in orange lettering.
The organisers hold one last hope that the disappearing dunnies might be found.
“It won’t be long before the port-a-loos will be full and need pumping out. Maybe that will flush out the thieves,” Mr Bailey said.
It’s the second time the rally has suffered a costly theft of equipment. In 2005, two hired shelters valued at $6000 were taken from Sterlings Road, near Kandanga.
“After the 2005 theft, this latest one is a serious challenge to the viability of an event that is run by car club volunteers,” Mr Bailey said.
“coates Rally Queensland brings substantial direct and indirect income to the region, yet incidents such as this suggest some just don’t appreciate it.”