'Trusted' treasurer stole $127k from community charity

A charity set up to help community sportspeople was rendered insolvent after its long-term trusted treasurer stole more than $127,000 to spend on gambling and living expenses.

Michael John Wisby, 76, held the position at the Carbine Club of Tasmania for more than 20 years and was granted life membership in 2017.

Between July 2018 and November 2019 he transferred a total of $122,359 from the club's bank account to his own in 126 separate transactions.

He also took $5100 in cash by writing and cashing cheques.

Wisby, who pleaded guilty to computer-related fraud and three counts of stealing, was this week sentenced to an 18-month home detention order.

Supreme Court of Tasmania Justice Michael Brett said in the normal course of events, the crime would warrant a significant jail term.

Justice Brett noted Wisby was the carer for his seriously ill wife and she would have to go to a nursing home if he was sent to prison.

"This would be a major step, and would almost certainly change her life in a significant and adverse way, perhaps permanently," Justice Brett said in his sentencing remarks.

"I am satisfied that you are unlikely to commit crimes of this nature again ... you are otherwise a person of good character." 

Wisby used "active deception" to take the money and on more than one occasion, tabled false reports at meetings which suggested the club was in a good financial position.

"The money was spent by you on gambling, and to meet everyday living expenses," Justice Brett said.

The theft was discovered by Wisby's replacement after he left the position.

"The club was rendered insolvent because of the loss of almost all of its funds," Justice Brett said.

"It is clear that members of the club suffered considerable embarrassment as a result of this insolvency, and feelings of betrayal and disappointment because of your breach of trust."

Justice Brett said Wisby's offending has had an adverse impact on the club's ability to seek donations and carry out its charity work.

Wisby has since repaid the money by selling his family home after the club initiated court proceedings.

Justice Brett said Wisby resorted to gambling to relieve the stress, anxiety and boredom during a "difficult" transition to caring for his wife during retirement.

A psychologist said Wisby was suffering a major depressive disorder during his offending, which, coupled with a longstanding gambling disorder, impaired his ability to think clearly.