Deepwater Scarecrow and Wool Festival’s planning team are reeling after their beloved sheep logo was pinched last week.

Festival publicity officer Julie Watt said last year a scarecrow dressed as a policeman was stolen from the roadside in the lead up to the event.

She said that while organisers were happy to milk the scarecrows theft for publicity, this incident had devastated the community.

“It’s very, very disappointing,” she said.

“We’re over it, we’re sick of it. It’s an inconvenience of the highest order.

“You feel like throwing your hands up in the air and saying ‘What the heck?’ but it’s only one person, or however many people.”

Mrs Watt said the fifth annual festival, which will be held across October 31 and November 1, was important to the Deepwater economy.

But she said this year, with the village deep in drought, it was being looked forward to more than ever.

“It brings a break from the agony that a lot of farmers go through with the drought and everything and just gives them a little bit of joy,” she said.

“Apart from the tourism it brings, it’s good for the locals.”

The theft has been reported to police and anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.