Vandals on the attack
IT'S a familiar story - another weekend - another smashed window or two in the Grafton CBD.
As a forensic police officer dusted for fingerprints yesterday, Pound St hair salon operator Donna Edye explained how thieves had rammed open her back door and ransacked the shop.
Though they only managed to steal some loose change and some of her signature range hair products, the cost to Ms Edye was far greater.
By the time she replaces the door and pays for the newly-installed alarm system and CCTV cameras the bill will be close to $2000.
"I certainly didn't budget for that," she said. "If the global financial crisis doesn't get businesses it'll be retailers that are sick of the break-ins and vandals that shuts the doors."
She called on Clarence Valley Council to "stop buck-passing" and install CCTV into the Grafton CBD.
Just around the corner at 46 Prince St, Julie Munro was frustrated that "some idiot" decided to kick or punch a panel of her display glass at her new business Sweet Treats and Gifts.
With a bill of $360 for the repair, Julie said an insurance claim simply wasn't feasible considering a $250 excess and the likelihood of an increased premium next year.
