Posted by Michael McCallum in spearfishing.com.au forums:
Hi Everyone
Please be aware that in the early hours of 27 July 2003 our 40 foot container full of Rob Allen stock scheduled to be shipped to Victoria was broken into. The thieves stole all of the railguns (approx 450 in total) and almost 1000 spears (amazing as they weighed almost 700kg).
Unfortunately the thieves decided to torch the container and in doing so destroyed the entire contents due to be shipped to Victoria today. All of the remaining contents have been rendered unusable by the fire. Also destroyed were 7,000 catalogues, all the RA posters, RA clothing, sample wetsuits, gloves, booties etc.
Stolen Rob Allen gear
The guns and spears that have been stolen could shortly be in circulation and I would ask any retailers or spearos who are approached to buy any Rob Allen equipment or hear of any cheap RA gear being offered for sale from anyone other than Rob Allen Australia to notify me immediately on 0409 298 603 or mmccallum@roballendive.com.
It is almost impossible for this gear to be disposed of without any retailers or spearos being made aware of it. The stolen railguns are very distinct as they sport the new RA stickers (as per the 2003 catalogue) and should still be in new packaging.
If someone does offer you gear, please try to find as much information about the prospective seller such as car rego, physical descriptions, mobile numbers etc so that the information can be passed on to the police. On the off chance that anyone has any information which may assist in the recovery of the gear, please contact me immediately.
Where to from here
At this stage we are insured although insurance companies being what they are, you never know.
We will be placing a large replacement order with Rob Allen today. Rob has agreed to rush us an emergency order with the view to a larger order being shipped in time for a huge summer.
Regardless, the show must go on, this is a minor hiccup and one that we will bounce back from stronger than ever. At this stage we have postponed our transfer to Victoria for a few days until the insurance issues are resolved. Accordingly, we are still contactable on (0 9249 5499 or mobile 0409 298 603.
Whilst we are delighted with the demand for Rob Allen gear, we never expected it to get to this level! This reaffirms that Rob Allen is quite clearly the "hottest" gear on the planet. (joke)
Please feel free to contact me with any queries you may have.
Kindest regards
Michael McCallum