Townsville Toy Library’s damaged fence repaired by secret helper

When the Townsville Toy Library’s fence and gates were damaged in May, the not-for-profit group was unsure how they would be able to get it fixed, until an anonymous good Samaritan repaired it.

Michaela Wenman with Finn, Marion Mackenzie with Leo and Arlie and Stacey Prenter with Lachlan and William in front of the newly repaired fence.

When the Townsville Toy Library’s fence and front gates were damaged in early May, the not-for-profit group was unsure how they would be able to get it fixed, until an anonymous good Samaritan repaired the fence last week.

The Townsville Bulletin reported on the vandalism of the Townsville Toy Library back in May, in which several panels and fence gates were damaged.

At the time Townsville Toy Library treasurer Stacey Prenter said the building had been victim to several vandalism attacks in the previous four months.

She said the anonymous repairs, which were carried out last week, meant the world to the small community- based initiative located in Vincent.

“We are so stoked,” she said.

Michaela Wenman with Finn, Marion Mackenzie with Leo and Arlie and Stacey Prenter with Lachlan and William in front of the newly repaired fence.

“We were trying to find someone who could fix it for us and someone has gone out of their way to help us.”

“It’s a huge deal for a not-for-profit like us.”

Vandalism at the Townsville Toy Library in Vincent. Picture supplied.

Ms Prenter said with many small children in and around the centre, the childproof gates and fences were crucial to reduce the risk of injury next to the car park and road.

The toy library committee members had been in talks with local groups, repair companies and members of parliament to get the fence fixed, but never imagined the generosity of the anonymous helper.

Vandalism at the Townsville Toy Library in Vincent. Picture supplied.

“One of our committee members came in on Friday and she realised the fence panels and front gates were totally fixed. They were still broken on Thursday afternoon,” Ms Prenter said.

“She messaged all of us in the committee and everyone had no idea who could have done it, we hadn’t heard any plans from anyone to come and do the repairs.”

“I called a few people and they said it wasn’t them. So we aren’t sure who it is that has done the repairs but we are so grateful.”

Ms Prenter said although the building was council owned, the original fence came out of their pocket.

“With the ongoing vandalism we had over the last few months, we didn’t have the funds to get them replaced,” she said.

The Townsville Toy Library has been running for over 46 years.

The 100% volunteer run library allows for members, who pay a yearly $100 fee, to borrow toys on a monthly basis.

Originally published as Townsville Toy Library’s damaged fence repaired by secret helper