Posted by Rob Suttie on October 29, 2001 at 21:54:19:
I'd like to report that I finally have my horn back.
Here's the story of how it was found:
After being stolen from me the tube was probably sold to a professional fence who then arranged for the tuba to be auctioned as a 'deceased estate' up in sydney. The person who bought the tuba had a store at the Berry Flea markets (which is actually quite close to Wollongong, NSW - where it was stolen from). A local tuba player bought the tuba from the store for Aus $550 (around $225 US). Fortunately a person who just happened to be at the same store browsing through books had read the stolen tuba ad that had been put in the local paper, and made the connection and rang up. Contact was made with the local tuba player and the instrument was bought back off him for the $550.
I was thinking how would anyone sell something as traceable as a tuba and not leave a trail - seems this person has found a way.
Thanks to all those who offered advice and support.
Rob Suttie
CoW BB (city of wollongong Brass band
Eb Tuba player