Anger at reports of bold supermarket thefts in Nambour

Brazen supermarket shoplifting is occurring, apparently without consequence in Nambour affecting staff safety and shoppers’ sense of security. And people are divided over how to respond.

The matter was highlighted in a social media post by former Maroochy Shire Council Deputy Mayor and lifetime local resident Trevor Thompson. Mr Thompson drew fresh attention to an apparently growing problem in town: people filling haversacks and/or trolleys with groceries and simply walking out, while shoppers and staff feel helpless. 

The matter has been covered by the Gazette in the past but Mr Thompson’s warning sparked online debate over theft, poverty and public safety in the midst of a noticeable influx of people sleeping rough.

“Be aware shop owners … easy way to get cheap groceries,” Mr Thompson wrote. “Just fill up your haversack from shopping basket, discard basket in aisle, put loaded haversack on your back and just walk out. When I reported it they (supermarket staff) said ‘it happens all the time’.”

Some commenters defended people taking food. Georgia wrote: “The best thing is minding your own business, people have mouths to feed and Cole’s and Woolworths are making millions each year … if someone is taking food it’s most likely a make or break situation. It’s not ok to steal no, but unfortunately people are having to because of the cost of living crisis. People are homeless & starving.”

Others rejected that view outright. Lindsay said: “Stealing is stealing no excuses,” while Peter urged a tougher response: “Georgia, do you condone stealing, can we send them to your house?” 

Mr Thompson also said “stealing is stealing”. He said anyone doing it tough had every opportunity to access free meals around Nambour. 

Shoppers and staff describe fear on the shop floor. Belinda gave a firsthand account: “I’ve witnessed this twice in the last couple of weeks. Tuesday two weeks ago 6.15pm a lady (not a local) came into Coles with one of the red shop baskets… she half turned sideways & ‘growled at me’… When I got to the checkout, talked to the young man serving. He said she (was very recognisable) walked out with the groceries, ‘they do it all the time’, ‘we’re not allowed to stop them’… I’m horrified, (and a little fearful).”

For many readers the issue is practical: stolen stock pushes prices up and forces supermarkets to lock more items, which makes shopping harder for budget-conscious families. For others it raised uncomfortable questions about compassion, the strain of rising living costs, and how to keep staff and shoppers safe around people affected by substance use or mental illness.

• Coles, Woolworths and Aldi head offices and/or media departments were contacted for comment.