Tom Weyrich was sorting through his Moama business’ cash register last weekend when he noticed a strange feel to a few $100 notes.
While the notes appeared genuine at first glance, closer inspection revealed they felt different to the touch, with the telltale word ‘PROP’ printed in the bottom-right corner of three $100 notes.
For a small local business, the $300 loss is a significant blow.
“People need to realise, just because we own businesses, doesn’t mean we have a whole heap of money lying around,” Mr Weyrich said.
“If they aren’t reimbursed by the bank, that is hundreds they are down that day.”
Echuca police First Constable Christian Toy revealed a concerning spike in counterfeit notes over recent weeks, with even major retailer Woolworths falling victim to the sophisticated scam in two separate incidents currently under investigation.
Tips to spot ‘funny money’
Most counterfeits are printed on paper and can be easily torn. A genuine banknote should return to shape after it is scrunched up.
When the note is held to the light, a seven-pointed star should be visible on both sides, along with a concealed image of the Australian Coat of Arms to the right of the portrait.
The old notes also have a clear window in one of the bottom corners, which has a white image printed on it that can’t be rubbed off.
For more information on identifying counterfeits, visit tinyurl.com/yc2yedu2
While police continue searching for the perpetrators, they’re calling on the entire community to become the first line of defence by carefully inspecting all $100 notes before accepting or passing them on.
“It’s very different to a normal or proper banknote and the ones we have been dealing with have actually got a label on the bottom-right corner that says ‘PROP’,” Constable Toy said.
“The print itself is also of a poorer quality compared to actual banknotes, so people are advised to inspect the notes thoroughly before handing them over or taking them from someone else.”
He also advised younger people working retail jobs to take more time inspecting money, as they may not be as familiar with real banknotes.
For Mr Weyrich, the scam is a disheartening hit during an already difficult economic climate.
“I think the people doing this need to take a hard look at themselves and the harm they are doing to small businesses,” he said.
“We’re already in a tough position as it is in this day and age.”
Anyone who comes across counterfeit money is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimestoppersvic.com.au
Alternatively, counterfeit money can be passed in to the Echuca Police Station.
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