AUGUST 1, 2018 \ STARWEEKLY.COM.AU
NEWS + SPORT + THE WEST’S BEST PROPERTY GUIDE
Bag snatch warning By Alesha Capone Wyndham police are investigating a spate of robberies in which handbags have been snatched from women near train stations and bus stops. Detective Senior Sergeant Matt Noy said there had been seven thefts and robberies between May 11 and July 20, including four incidents within the last three weeks of that period. He said most of the bag snatches had taken place between 5.30-8.30pm in and around the Truganina and Williams Landing area. “Females have been targeted while carrying their handbags,” Detective Senior Sergeant Noy said. “On one or two occasions, when the offender has tried to take a bag, the victim has held on, and there has been a sort-of wrestle and words spoken [by the offender] to the effect of demanding the bag.”
‘‘
100 years of milestones Plenty of exercise, laughter and “a good sheila” are Eric Johnston’s secrets to a long life. Mr Johnston, who celebrated his 100th birthday at the Werribee RSL on Saturday, was married to his beloved wife Vera for 73 years before she died four years ago. Together, the couple have five children, 10 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren. Mr Johnston married Vera a few months before being deployed as part of the Australian Army, 8th Division, 6th Signals and F Force in World War II. He was captured by the Japanese, held as a prisoner of war in Changi and worked on the Thai-Burma railway. Upon returning to Australia, he became a member of the RSL and worked for the Forestry Commission. After moving to Wyndham Vale more than two decades ago, Mr Johnston became a volunteer at the Victorian State Rose Garden. A keen sportsman, he played golf, lawn bowls, football and cricket. A resident of The Uniting AgeWell’s Manor Lakes Community, he still enjoys singing, dancing and growing tomatoes. Mr Johnston’s family also describe him as “a mad Collingwood supporter”.
Females have been targeted while carrying their handbags - Matt Noy
He said that in addition to women being targeted near train stations, they had also been robbed while getting off buses, usually while alone. He said police had not “excluded” the possibility that the robberies could be linked. Police are examining CCTV coverage and speaking with the victims. “We’re still trying to confirm whether there is one person or possibly multiple persons involved,” he said. Detective Senior Sergeant Noy said most of the robberies occurred within seconds. Because they had taken place at dusk or night, it was difficult for the victims to get a good look at the robber or robbers – or even to see if there was one or more perpetrators present. Detective Senior Sergeant Noy said there had been no weapons produced during the robberies. None of the victims had been injured. Anyone with information has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
(Damjan Janevski)
’’
ERIC JOHNSTON WITH GREAT-GRANDDAUGHTER MIA, 3
Alesha Capone