Vandalism at the Manjimup Timber and Heritage Park sparks community co
MEDIA RELEASE - Vandalism at the Manjimup Timber and Heritage Park sparks community concern
December 2015
The public toilet located at History House, adjacent to the adventure playground in Manjimup Timber and Heritage Park, was vandalised on the weekend to the point where it could not be used for a period of time.Two female offenders have been identified and police investigations are continuing.
"Public toilets are provided as a convenience for park patrons," explained Cr DeCampo, who went on to describe the act as disrespectful, selfish and an absolute nuisance. "It is really difficult to understand why people feel the need to deface and destroy a public facility that has been provided, for our community and our visitors, in good faith."
"The whole aim and concept behind the Manjimup Timber and Heritage Park, which includes a state of the art adventure playground, is to provide a place where youth and families can visit to enjoy themselves, remain active and even learn something about the history of our region," said Cr DeCampo. He went on to express his concern that the act of vandalism was committed by such young offenders, the very age group that should be appreciating the park and everything within it.
The estimated cost to have the facility reinstated is almost $2,000, including a complete repaint and a plumber to unblock and fix the toilet.
"The Shire are the custodians of ratepayers' money and the caretakers of Shire assets, which are actually owned by everyone in the community. Diverting funds that would have been better spent elsewhere is frustrating for all of us," explained Cr DeCampo.
The Manjimup Timber and Heritage Park is open until 8pm during summer and Cr DeCampo encourages people to continue visiting the park to experience all that is on offer, including bbq facilities, grassed areas and the playground. "We're coming up to a very busy period with school holidays and the festive season approaching and the Shire always aims to provide places and amenities that are both safe and clean," said Cr DeCampo.
"We all need to assume a level ownership of these facilities and take pride in how they are kept, no matter what age group we're in. This responsibility needs to be instilled in our youth in particular. "
-ENDS-
Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Manjimup.
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Public Relations Officer, Shire of Manjimup
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact for comment: Wade DeCampo, Shire President.
Contact: 0427 094 081
