Trader at a loss over computer files theft

“This time I’ve lost everything. I feel so stressed. What do I tell my customers when they come in?”

A PAKINGTON St trader is pleading with thieves for the return of 16 years of computer files after the system was stolen during a Newtown crime spree this week. It comes as others in the shopping strip call on council to erect CCTV cameras to protect their livelihoods from the burglary onslaught.

Oakwood Restoration owner Peter Hames said the smash and grab had left him unable to track his current orders and payments, leaving customers in the dark.

He is offering a “substantial reward” for its return.

“On that computer I’ve got 16 years of database and they’ve taken that and my backup as well. I’ve got no history of what clients have actually bought from me,” he said.

“To me being broken into is upsetting, but that computer, that’s my life and it’s gone.

“This time I’ve lost everything. I feel so stressed. What do I tell my customers when they come in?”

Mr Hames’ business was one of half a dozen on the popular

PETER HAMES

shopping strip hit by thieves over the last week.

Tonik owner Niki Nurnaitis said business owners had now started a push to get CCTV cameras installed along the Newtown end of Pakington St in the hope of reducing crime.

Her store has been hit four times since March 24, the most recent a brazen snatch and grab on Sunday. Other stores recently damaged include Seed, Oakwood Restorations, Sticks & Grace, Busters Bar and Grill and Secret Skin.

“There is a lot of anger and frustration from the local retailers,” she said.

A similar campaign on the Bellarine Peninsula saw CCTV cameras installed in Drysdale and Ocean Grove to help drive down crime in those areas.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.