Stunned surfer describes moment his 4WD was stolen

Title: Man's Shocking Encounter: 4WD Stolen at Popular Surfing Spot, Nearly Endangering Beachgoers

Date: March 15, 2023

Location: Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia

A local man, identified as John Doe, shared an alarming experience of having his Toyota Land Cruiser stolen while he was surfing at the popular Byron Bay beaches in New South Wales, Australia. The incident occurred on a sunny afternoon when a large crowd was present, enjoying various water activities.

According to Doe, he had parked his vehicle near the shoreline around 11:30 AM, intending to return after a quick surf session. However, when he paddled back to the shore around 2 PM, he discovered that his Land Cruiser was no longer in its designated parking spot.

Doe expressed his disbelief and shock as he recounted the incident to local authorities. He described the vehicle as a dark grey 2018 Toyota Land Cruiser with distinctive modifications, including a custom-painted roof rack and a set of large all-terrain tires.

Witnesses at the scene reported that they saw a man in a hoodie and shorts acting suspiciously around Doe's vehicle before the theft occurred. The thief managed to start the engine and drive off at high speed, narrowly missing several beachgoers who were sunbathing or enjoying a picnic nearby.

The stolen vehicle was last seen heading north towards Broken Head, a residential area located approximately 5 kilometers from the scene of the crime. Byron Bay Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The local surfing community has expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of securing vehicles when visiting the beach. Byron Bay Police have advised residents and tourists to take necessary precautions, such as installing steering wheel locks or using immobilizers to deter potential thieves.

Doe, who has been a regular visitor to Byron Bay for over a decade, expressed his disappointment in the incident but remains hopeful that his vehicle will be recovered soon. He also urged anyone with information regarding the theft to contact the police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.

The Byron Bay Police Department can be reached at (02) 6632 0555 for any information regarding this incident or to report any suspicious activity in the area. Crime Stoppers can be contacted anonymously at 1800 333 000.

In the meantime, Doe plans to continue surfing at Byron Bay while taking extra precautions to secure his belongings. He remains grateful for the support of the local community and encourages everyone to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.