The Gepp family, relocating from Melbourne to Canberra, had their car stolen from Queen Street during the night of December 24. 

The Gepps were staying with extended family in Bendigo for one night.

Mother Jessie Gepp said presents for her two young children, along with valuables, were in the car.

She estimated the cost of the theft to be $45,000.

“We haven't had the greatest month, this is like the icing on top of the cake,” she said.

Luckily, the Gepp’s extended family had presents for two-and-a-half year old Eva and one-and-a-half year old Apollo.

“Because we’re moving we can't take personal stuff in the truck, it was all in the car. A lot of things were in there that can’t be replaced,” Ms Gepp said.

“You have that feeling like you want to keep looking but we had to continue the journey.”

The family have a replacement car through their insurance company but remain hopeful of their original car – a dark grey Suzuki Grand Vitara – is found.

“We were looking forward to spending the night (in Bendigo) and exploring the next day,” she said.

Ms Gepp said she didn’t want the theft to define her, and her family’s, memory of Bendigo, adding she was heartened by the support the family had received.

Bendigo police Sergeant Andrew Bowen said the stolen car had not been recovered.

He sympathised with the family, but said it was a timely remind to not keep valuables in cars. 

“Don’t create an opportunity for thieves,” he said.

The Gepps are currently on the road to Canberra. If you have any information that could assist police contact Bendigo police station on 5448 1300 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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