Mechanic Beau Brannan opened the Service Centre East Maitland on Monday. For Mr Brannan it was his first step at expanding his business. He also owns Thornton Mechanical Repairs.

Mr Brannan said he put signs of the front of the business that said “Under New Management” and “$25 regos while you wait”. His logo was also printed on the banners. 

But on Wednesday night the signs, worth $270 and $550 respectively, were cut down and stolen.

“It’s annoying, upsetting really,” Mr Brannan said.

“We were just getting started, we’re a small business and money is hard to find. There are only seven employees.”

Mr Brannan said he scoured the area around his business on the corner of Chelmsford Drive and Turton Street, but couldn’t locate the missing signs. 

Mr Brannan reported the theft to police but, as of Thursday afternoon, no one had been charged.

Online he called on the public to come forward with any information.

“Hopefully someone knows something,” he said.

“I don’t really know anyone here yet, so I’ve been walking around asking the neighbours.

“Everyone has been very welcoming. Calling in just to say ‘hi’. And we’ve had more business than we thought, it’s looking positive.”