Following a bout of vandalism on public property, Glen Innes Severn manager for tourism and events Peter Teschner has spoken out against the perpetrators, dubbing the defacement of the Danthonia-made ‘Welcome to Glen Innes’ signage on the New England Highway opposite Super Strawberry an “absolute disrespect”.
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“It is sad to see so much vitriol in the community,” Mr Teschner said.
The defacement, which is suspected to have occurred between Sunday evening and the early hours of Monday morning, has since been removed, with Danthonia representatives attending the sign this week.
Mr Teschner said that while it is sad to see such angry sentiments in the community, it is particularly disappointing to see those sentiments directed towards public property, especially property showcasing local craftsmanship and community pride.
With extensive repair work to take place, including re-finishing the embossed lettering in gold leaf, Mr Teschner said the vandalism poses an expensive venture to set right again.
Police are investigating the matter. Senior Constable Chris Elvins said that the defacement is believed to be linked to a break-and-enter at the Cool Climate Garden Centre where the vandals appear to have obtained the red and yellow paints used in the attack, while also defacing a number of outdoor furniture pieces at the garden centre.
Snr Constable Elvins said that police have engaged the specialities of the forensic services unit who have examined the scene, with police expecting to obtain valuable forensic evidence to assist in their investigation.
Cool Climate Garden Centre’s Ron Kiehne has also spoken out against the vandals, saying that it was very sad to see such defacement in the community.
After vandals defaced a large quantity of cement outdoor garden furniture, Mr Kiehne said the repair work will be expensive with one vandalised piece priced in excess of $2000.
“There are certainly some low lives out there,” Mr Kiehne said.
“It’s very sad to see it happen.”
Investigations into the matter are continuing with local police urging citizens with information to come forward and contact the local police station on 67 329 799 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
