During the Australia Day long weekend, I was helping out with Surf Life Saving by patrolling Manly Beach for sharks with my drone.

Early that morning a shark sighting led to the beach being temporarily closed. In the disruption and rush that followed, someone entered the surf life saving club and stole my bag while I was on duty.

The bag contained all of my essentials, including:

My wallet with ID, bank cards and cash

My car keys (remote key)

Home keys and building fob

Prescription reading glasses and spare sunglasses

Phone charger and accessories

Makeup, lip balm and sunscreen

Hairbrush

A small gift I had bought for a family member

I’ve since reported the theft to Manly Police, and I’ve been quoted around $500 just to replace my car keys, with additional cost of $220 still to come for my house key+new locks, ID replacement and other essentials.

Because I offered to extend my shift, I didn’t realise my bag was missing for some time. With no keys and no way to get home, I was forced to stay in a hotel overnight, adding further unexpected expense.

I’m incredibly grateful for any support to help cover the costs of replacing these essential items. Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story — and for any help you’re able to offer