Hospice car theft ‘impacts client services’
TOOWOOMBA Hospice chairman Graham Barron wants the thief who stole the charity’s car to take a walk through the centre and see firsthand what it means to the community.
He would have the offender sit with patients and their families as they say their final farewells and grapple with emotions.
“I just can’t see why someone would target the hospice,” Mr Barron said.
“I just don’t know what people are thinking.”
The not-for-profit organisation provides palliative care, and relies on community donations and grants to remain sustainable.
The care offered is free, and the stolen Mazda 3 hatchback had been bought using a grant.
While insured and temporarily replaced with a hire vehicle, Mr Barron said the theft had impacted client services.
“We take pride in the Toowoomba Hospice and the hospice is well supported by the community,” he said.
“The theft is very disturbing. At the end of the day, it does affect client services.
“The management committee is very conscious of the security of staff and volunteers, and two years ago we put in a security system which has been very helpful in this latest episode.”
Footage from the security system installed two years ago has been handed to police whose investigations are continuing.
“It’s really not fair,” Mr Barron said referring to the impact the theft had on clients, and the Wunsch family.