i reckon that is a bit harsh on the fuzz. i see them regularly patrolling my local beach car parks on weekends and afternoons as a deterrant to this scum. unfortunately they can't be everywhere at once, and it is far easier for the thieves to pick and choose their timing then it is for the police to cover the area and their other call outs etc.

you are spot on about not leaving gear in car, but i'd also be wary of anything on the beach unless you have a bit of a crew holding ground in the vicinity - have had a few occasions when an "out of place" couple or individual wanders down to the edge of the dune for a foray near my bag with keys/wallet and i've been lucky enough to have finished a long tack and been close to shore to notice - and subsequently hang out there and give em a friendly wave/frosty glare.

it sucks that it is a sign of the times, but that is city life i suppose...

Yeah I seen the glass as well
I parked there on Monday avo around 4ish car park was full but didn't see anyone around