Great wind - and the eagerness to get out on the water means relatively easy picking for thieves who are on the watch at more of the local kiting venues...

This post is based on recent experiences in Victoria but applies nation-wide.

Already there are a number of reports from St Kilda and other lcoations of kit being stolen while kiters are out on the water or otherwise occupied.

The latest of these is from Hampton beach where a thief apparently watched a kiter hide his keys and then casually helped himself to the content of the kiter's car while the kiter was out on the water.

We appeal to all kiters to be aware that we are being watched - and not in the way we want.

Some tips:
* Take minimum gear - leave the luxuries at home or with someone on the beach.
* Have a beach-partner, or organise for a friend, watch your stuff.
* Do not hide your keys - take them with you - waterproof pouches are readily available from local kite and sailing dealers - even from Parks Vic if you ask them nicely (for those in Victoria).
* Do not leave valuables visible in your car - lock them securely in the boot or better yet take them for a sail.

Be vigilent - report any suspicious behaviour - sometimes just calling on the phone, writing down a car license number, or even taking a phone photo while looking at a suspicious character is enough to scare them off if they are up to no good.....