Fuel Thieves Target Winton Businesses in Brazen Morning Raid

Fuel thieves have targeted two Winton businesses within 12 hours, drilling holes in fuel tanks to steal diesel as petrol prices soar.

Police are investigating whether the thefts at a vegetable stall and mechanic's workshop on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning are connected.

Wilson's Vege Stall co-owner David Wilson discovered the brazen theft when he arrived at work on Thursday morning.

"I got to work in the morning, and could smell the smell of diesel. They'd taken the diesel cap off," he said.

"I had a look under, and all the diesel had poured out of the tank. They'd bored a hole in the bottom of the tank."

Security cameras captured the offender arriving around 6.45am on State Highway 6, just south of Winton.

"This road is really busy with people going past at that time in the morning," Wilson said.

"We're just hoping somebody's seen them. Like, there are lights in front of the shop, so the lights would be shining on their vehicle as well, so they've been pretty brazen to have a go at it."

Most of the stolen diesel spilled onto the ground, leaving Wilson facing the cost of replacing the damaged fuel tank and likely seeking insurance.

"That's a real pain in the bum because now I've got to get the tank fixed. It's the inconvenience," he said.

"But hey, it's sort of disappointing when someone dumps your fuel on the ground."

Police received another fuel theft report from Great North Road in Winton at 9.30pm Wednesday evening, where a mechanic's vehicle was similarly targeted.

Acting sergeant Daniel Munro of Otautau said enquiries are underway to determine if the incidents are connected.

"If people have information or footage that may assist with our enquiries, we would appreciate hearing from them," he said.

Police urged rural communities to review their security, particularly around fuel storage, as crude oil prices hit $109 USD per barrel amid Middle East tensions.

The Wilsons have operated their vegetable stall and farm shop for more than 35 years.

Anyone with information can contact police on 105 quoting file number 260514/1519.