A bell that looks similar to the 100kg brass bell that was stolen from the church.
A brass bell weighing around 100kg has been stolen from the church it has chimed from for more than a century.
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Sometime between Easter weekend and 9.30am on Sunday, April 26, thieves have removed the heavy bell, its chain and frame from Mooroopna’s Uniting Church in Alexandra St.
The bell was noticed missing ahead of a Sunday Mass when a parishioner went to ring it.
A chain link fence at the rear of the property, obscured by a tree, that has been cut and pulled back is believed to be where thieves have entered and exited, as all other gates and doors remained closed and locked.
Senior Constable Tess Storey from Mooroopna police said it would have taken at least two people to lift the heavy bell.
The actual bell is pictured to the right. The frame and chain were also stolen.
The brass bell has been in the backyard of the church for more than 100 years.
It has no specific markings on it for identification, but it has turned grey due to ageing and weathering.
Police are looking for any witnesses who might have noticed any suspicious activity at the church since Easter weekend.
Anyone with information, or CCTV or dashcam footage, should contact Mooroopa police Senior Constable Tess Storey on 5820 5777 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestoppersvic.com.au
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