Arsonists destroy popular Pitt St access to Blacks Beach at Mackay
It is the second arson attack in a matter of weeks and locals are outraged more cannot be done to protect community assets and punish offenders.
Mackay
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A fire at one of the most popular beach entrances for dog walkers at Blacks Beach has angered locals who say there has been a string of crime in the suburb.
The fire, believed to be lit in the early hours of Monday morning, was so hot it not only destroyed the viewing platform seats and flooring but also metal poles.
The blaze also spread to nearby bushland at the Pitt St beach entrance – popular with dog walkers because it has a bin and taps.
Stairs to get down to the beach are still open but the rest of the structure is condoned off and the stench of the charred remains lingers.
This arson attack comes only one week after vandals set upon AFL Mackay’s Eastern Swans home ground, leaving a coaching box and sponsor signs ruined in their wake.
Police are investigating the Blacks Beach fire damage which Mackay Regional Council must now bear responsibility to repair.
Mayor Greg Williamson said it was “disappointing” the actions of some ruined the enjoyment of many.
“It is disappointing that some people in the community feel the need to damage public property,” Mr Williamson said
“It comes at a significant cost to council and ratepayers.”
Many in Mackay and Blacks Beach Facebook groups claim there is a group of teenage girls causing issues in the Northern Beaches suburb.
Caron Joyce also found it “really disappointing to see the platform at Blacks Beach burnt to the ground”.
“Wonder if it’s the same ones that set the fire near the roundabout the other week,” she said in a post on Facebook.
“Council try to do something good for the community and some dirt bag destroys it.
“Nearby trees burned and proximity very close to people’s homes.”
Megan Buckley called the arsonists“bloody idiots”.
“Where are the parents? They should start monitoring their kids,” she said.
David Brand said the kids responsible should be charged and given the bill to replace the viewing platform.
“A percentage of their wages as they get older until paid off will teach them a lesson,” he said.
Sally-Jane Bruggemann suggested that would give them “further incentive for not getting a job” and then “us hard working respectful citizens foot the bill”.
“There should be some debt system put into place for juveniles,” she said.
“Unfortunately they would already know how to work the system to their advantage. So frustrating.”
Scott Briggs described the act of vandalism as a “complete joke”.
“The oldies used this all the time to rest up,” he said.
“Families young and old alike. Well done.”
Police will continue to investigate the crime and are encouraging anyone with information to phone Policelink on 131 444.
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