A struggling Bundarra farmer says he will sell his cattle if that’s what it takes to raise enough reward money to bring eight stolen firearms back to his family, according to his daughter-in-law Emma Kocanda. The weapons were stolen during a break-in at Peter Stewart’s property between 7am and 5pm on Monday, November 20.
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But the firearms, kept inside a gun safe, were more than hunting equipment to the Stewart family who have passed them from generation to generation as heirlooms.
“These guns meant the absolute world to [Peter] and my partner,” Ms Kocanda said. “Each has a sentimental value which no money can ever buy.”
The weapons stolen include a Simson 12G side by side double barrel shotgun; Sportco 62A .22 calibre rifle; Diamond .410 side by side double barrel shotgun; Marlin 917.V.17HMR calibre rifle; IAC 12G lever action shotgun; Maine .22 calibre rifle; Savage 11 .223 Calibre rifle; and a Birmingham Small Arms .310 calibre antique.
Ms Kocanda said the Diamond shotgun is around 167 years old and along with the other weapons represent several generations of father-son memories including hunting that was done to survive hard times in the bush rather than just sport. The family are offering $1000 reward for each gun returned in original condition and $10,000 for information leading to the conviction of those involved. Call 0467 661 146 for more details.