At approximately 10.35pm on Thursday 10 November 2011, a man entered the Billabong Hotel in Brisbane Street, Launceston. The man was armed with a knife and demanded money from the manager. The manager was alone at the time as the hotel had closed for the night.

After receiving a quantity of cash the man has forced the manager into a cool room at knife point. At the time of being forced into the cool room the manager sustained an injury from the knife to his face.

It appears the man has attempted to lock the manager inside the cool room before leaving the hotel. Detective Senior Sergeant Ruth Orr said “Due to the manner in which this crime was committed police are seeking assistance from any members of the public who may have been in Brisbane Streetnear the Billabong Hotel at around 10.30pm last night”.   Detective Senior Sergeant Orr described the man as being approximately 20 years of age, about 175cm tall and slim build. He was wearing a black cap, light coloured hooded top and black track pants.

Members of the public who may have seen any people or vehicles acting suspiciously in the vicinity of the Billabong Hotel on Thursday evening are urged to contact Launceston CIB on 6336 3915 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Media & Communications
(03) 6230 2296