Queenscliff Pier’s Waiting Shed vandalised, $10k worth of damage caused

Thousands of dollars worth of damage has been made to a historic shed in Queenscliff, with the incidents reported to police.

Queenscliff Pier's historic Waiting Shed has been vandalised, with its seating torn out. Picture: Facebook

Vandals have caused thousands of dollars worth of damage to a historic Queenscliff site, leaving authorities and the community disappointed.

The Queenscliff Pier’s Waiting Shed was damaged by vandalism in recent weeks, according to Parks Victoria.

Acting regional director Jodi Heath said the damage was extensive.

“Some decking boards have been burnt, sections of seating removed, holes kicked in timber lining of the Waiting Shed, and some smaller damage to the gate,” Ms Heath said.

“We estimate the cost of repair will be around $10,000.

Parks Victoria says the vandalism damage incidents has been report to the police. Picture: Facebook

“We’ve been very disappointed to find vandalism damage to the historic Waiting Shed and Queenscliff Pier and have reported the incidents to the police.”

A Borough of Queenscliffe shire spokeswoman said the Queenscliff Pier waiting shed was a significant maritime heritage asset, that both locals and visitors to the Borough flocked to for sightseeing, fishing, and diving activities.

“These acts of vandalism at the pier are disappointing, and council, together with our community are frustrated by this unacceptable behaviour,” the spokeswoman said.

A social media post about the damage garnered attention online, with multiple people calling for surveillance cameras to be installed.

Queenscliff Pier's historic waiting shed recently had revitalisation work completed. Picture: Parks Victoria website

Ms Heath said Parks Victoria wanted the local community to stay vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to police.

The Queenscliff South Pier, including the Waiting Shed, had preservation and repair works completed last year.

According to Parks Victoria, this was done to “extend its life and preserve heritage values”.

The authority said on its website the works provided renewed capacity to support future opportunities for community use.

Queenscliff Pier and Lifeboat Shed were an integral part of the infrastructure provided to improve the safety for ships entering or leaving Port Phillip.

Many lives were saved through the efforts of the crews that manned the lifeboat, which is now located in the nearby Queenscliff Maritime Museum.

In March this year, thieves and vandals targeted the Queenscliff Art Prize exhibition at Queenscliff Pier, stealing almost 500 solar lights.

The incident angered art organiser and residents, with Queenscliff Art Prize director Chris MacLeod labelling the damage “incredibly disappointing”.

Originally published as Queenscliff Pier’s Waiting Shed vandalised, $10k worth of damage caused