By NATALIE GALLENTI
COBURN Primary school was thrown into disarray last week after callous thieves stole and vandalised water meters and pipes on the school grounds.
Students and staff were forced to use neighbouring amenities last Tuesday after the school was left without water, while some parents chose to bring their children home for the day.
School principal Gail Crane told Star the theft caused a minor inconvenience throughout the school day, however the school provided bottled water for its students and teachers accompanied youngsters to the bathroom.
“We were very disappointed and surprised… now there is caging over the water pipes, one day of disruption is enough. We don’t fancy another,” Ms Crane said.
“We took it in our stride and were as courteous as we could be to parents and let them know what was happening. Now it is business as usual.”
Cambridge, Coburn and Watts Residents Association president Nathan Miles said it was “disgusting” that thieves would target a children’s primary school and leave the school without water.
“It is such a stupid and selfish act and as a result hundreds of kids have been affected as well as the dedicated staff at the school.”
Police said similar incidents have occurred throughout Melbourne including one in Melton earlier this year.
It is believed there is a small black market for expensive plumbing and other building supplies.
Anyone with information about the theft is urged to phone police on 9747 7999.
