What’s Happening
Over the past year, Townsville’s Division 3, represented by Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney, has endured over $200,000 in damages due to persistent vandalism across popular public spaces, from beaches to skateparks.
Why It Matters
This costly and destructive behaviour is draining Council resources and impacting Townsville ratepayers, who ultimately shoulder the financial burden of these repairs. The community is urged to support efforts to curb these acts.
By the Numbers
- $200,000 in total damages to Division 3’s public assets over the past year
- $100,000+ in repairs needed for beach amenities, including taps, irrigation, and drinking fountains
- $75,000 allocated to fix plumbing for public toilets at Robertson and Freemasons Parks, repeatedly damaged
Local Impact
The community’s most cherished outdoor spaces, from Pallarenda to North Ward, are being targeted, threatening their accessibility and upkeep. Councillor Greaney is appealing to the community for information to help protect these facilities.
Graffiti, Grit, and Grievance
With vandalism persisting despite Council’s investments in maintenance and CCTV, residents are rallying around the need for heightened awareness and reporting to protect community assets.
What The People Say
- “It is just reckless vandalism, plain and simple and it’s costing ratepayers hundreds of thousands of dollars annually,” Cr Greaney stated.
- “It makes me sick to my stomach that people can get away with this, and sadly in the end of the day it’s the ratepayers who end up missing out on other things to foot the bill,” she added.
What To Look For Next
Council and Queensland Police will continue enhancing surveillance efforts, with local residents encouraged to report any suspicious activity by contacting Policelink on 131 444. Community cooperation is key to preventing further damage and protecting public spaces.
