As Hunter farmers cope with the devastating drought, it's been revealed hay bale theft is on the rise.
Fairfax reports a car trailer loaded with $700 worth of square bales was stolen from a shed at Phoenix Park last week and another $900 worth of hay was taken from Maitland.
It's not clear if the thefts can be traced to desperate farmers or opportunists looking for a quick buck.
It's prompted a warning from Hunter Valley rural crime investigators for farmers to keep their supplies secure and to research hay suppliers on the internet to ensure their business is legitimate.
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Hay bale theft on the rise in the Hunter Picture: pictorem.com |