Student Tayla (left) is shocked when friend Holly informs her of the missing guinea pigs. ms232116
TWO beloved Guinea Pigs were recently stolen from students at the Bass Coast Specialist School in what staff are calling a ‘low act.’
Business manager at the school Christina Burns is baffled by the burglary.
“It’s such a shame. Who would steal from a specialist school?” Christina said.
“Everyone was so shocked and saddened when we realised what had happened. It’s so disappointing that this could happen to students at such a facility.”
The theft of the two guinea pigs is believed to have taken place between Friday, May 13 and Sunday, May 15.
Staff arrived at the school on Sunday, May 15 to find the entire cage and its contents, pets included, to be missing.
Tracks leading from the enclosure suggested the thieves made their escape via the scrubby bushland at the back of the property.
Staff member Rachel Cullen was responsible for the school acquiring the guinea pigs at the beginning of the 2016 school year.
“I thought it would be a great idea for the students to have some pets,” Rachel said.
“They were donated to us at the beginning of the year, and since then we’ve used them to help the kids with their therapy, and to teach them responsibility and caring for another living thing.
“I was so surprised when I arrived back at work to find that they weren’t here.
“It’s just disappointing. We’re all really sad, and the kids keep asking after them, asking staff when the guinea pigs are coming back home.”
There have already been offers from the community to replace the missing guinea pigs, however Christina is still holding out hope that the original pair might be returned home safe and sound.
“We’re appealing to the public for any information.”
Police are currently investigating the theft.
If you have information about the incident, contact the Wonthaggi Police Station on 5671 4100.
