Echuca family robbed twice in a week

A wallet and purse were stolen and two unlocked vehicles in the driveway were searched.

“It's a violation and makes you feel sick,” said the resident, who did not wish to be named.

“"It's put us on the back foot. We've got kids so you want to make sure they're safe.

“We'll be changing our practices and will need to be more vigilant when it comes to locking our house and cars.”

And while this was a lesson learnt for the family, they were robbed again a week later.

The family's 2009 Nissan Navara and the 6x4 trailer it was towing was stolen from the driveway overnight Saturday.

“Thieves smashed the rear passenger side window and hotwired the car,” Echuca's Senior Constable Scott Newton said.

The trailer, full of firewood, was found dumped in Banyule State Forest on Sunday afternoon.

The car was found hidden behind scrub at the back of the EDNA netball courts in the Echuca South Football oval complex early Monday.

“We're not sure if the car was used in any crime at this stage,” Snr Constable Newton said.

“Both trailer and vehicle have been forensically examined and we are awaiting results.”

The owner said while she was thankful the car and trailer were found, the thefts caused a huge inconvenience.

“We've got insurance excesses to pay, but in the end we're okay and the things that were taken are replaceable,” she said.

“I'd just like to commend the police for their prompt response. They really went above and beyond and have shown empathy which is a real positive for us.”

Detective Senior Constable Peter Colliver of Echuca criminal investigation appealed to anyone who had information about the crimes to come forward.

He also urged residents to be vigilant to avoid opportunistic crime.

“This is a reminder for people to lock their houses and vehicles, even when they're home because this is becoming a community problem,” he said.

Anyone with information into the burglary and thefts can contact Echuca police on 5483 1500 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.