Melbourne police have tracked down two iconic plastic Peters ice cream cones stolen from a beloved local shop, bringing sweet relief to a tight-knit community.
The large display cones, which have stood outside the East Melbourne General Store since its opening in 1974, were taken around 2 a.m. on May 25. The thieves had deliberately blacked out the store’s security cameras in an apparent attempt to cover their tracks.
Store owner Lisette Malatesta described the cones as more than just storefront decor. “I imagine now that they’ve been sold on Facebook Marketplace and are going to end up in somebody’s man cave, only to be seen by a bunch of mates,” she told 9News. “But here, they were really important to our entire community.”
Acting on a tip, police executed a search warrant last night at a home in Templestowe Lower. A 50-year-old man was arrested and is expected to be charged on summons. The cones were found early this morning at a property in Gisborne, nearly 60 kilometers from where they were stolen.
Authorities confirmed the display pieces are in good condition and will be returned to the East Melbourne General Store today.
This incident comes as interest in nostalgic branding grows, especially among businesses exploring ice cream franchise opportunities. Iconic symbols like the Peters cones not only promote classic ice cream products but also contribute to the community identity of long-standing retailers.
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