A bold break-in last Saturday at Newell Beach serves as a timely reminder of the importance of security in residential neighbourhoods. Two individuals attempted to enter multiple homes and successfully stole a vehicle, credit cards, and house keys from one residence.

The incident occurred around 5.30pm on Saturday, 31 August, when the offenders approached homes along Olive Street. Their actions were captured on CCTV cameras.

Matthew Coulton, whose father owns the home targeted in the break-in, recounted the events that led to the theft. His father had left for a beach walk around 5.00pm, exiting through the back door and leaving it unlocked.

“When dad returned, he discovered that his wallet, credit cards, and car keys were missing, along with the family’s 2016 Land Rover Discovery,” Mr Coulton said.

“One of our neighbours saw the car leaving and noticed that my dad wasn’t driving it, so they asked if one of his children had taken it.”

He added that two suspects entered the property while four others were inside the stolen vehicle as they drove away.

“The suspects tried to enter at least two or three homes. They were walking along the beach, pretending to call for their dog while heading toward the back of each house,” he explained.

The CCTV footage provided by a neighbour was instrumental in helping the Queensland Police identify the suspects. 

Following leads from the footage, the police engaged in a chase, which resulted in the arrest of one suspect around 10.30pm that evening in Kuranda. While one suspect was arrested, the remaining three fled the scene, and police are still searching for them.

All stolen items, including the keys and the vehicle, were recovered. The suspects attempted to use the stolen credit cards at ATMs but were unsuccessful due to a lack of PIN codes.

Police suspect that the group may be from interstate, although this has yet to be confirmed. 

Matthew Coulton’s father, initially shaken by the incident, is feeling relieved now that the vehicle has been returned. 

“This case serves as a reminder for community members to stay vigilant, even in areas that seem safe,” Mr Coulton said.