Gracemere Hall, Southside Pool and Kershaw Gardens fall victim to vandals

Smashed windows and fire extinguishers being discharged are just some of the latest senseless acts of destruction inflicted on Rockhampton facilities. And ratepayers will have to foot the damage bill which could reach close to $100,000. Full details here.

Vandalism damage at the Gracemere Hall and Southside Pool Kiosk.

In the wake of $69,000 worth of vandalism damage at Kershaw Gardens in March, more Rockhampton facilities have fallen victim to senseless acts of destruction.

This publication can report that the Gracemere Hall was broken into recently and fire extinguishers were discharged.

Vandals let off fire extinguishers inside the Gracemere Hall.

Damage caused by vandals, including fire extinguishers being discharged, at the Gracemere Hall.

The hall had to be closed for a week for cleaning and all bookings had to be moved to other venues or postponed.

The Southside Pool kiosk was also broken into via a smashed window and stock was damaged.

Vandals smashed a window at the Southside Pool to gain entry.

Damage to the Southside Pool Kiosk.

On top of the previous damage at Kershaw Gardens, the sensory garden pump was forcibly removed, which required the replacement of cabling, and the waterfall pump room was broken into.

Rockhampton Regional Council was contacted for comment about the vandalism report and Communities Councillor Drew Wickerson said the council was working to rectify the damage.

“This seemingly harmless fun has serious and costly consequences for our region,” he said.

“This kind of behaviour is unacceptable – it is not only hindering community members who utilise the amenities, but it is creating an unnecessary cost for council to rectify the damage.

“I’m sure all residents can agree they would like to see their rates going to something more productive than cleaning up after a few selfish individuals.”

Police reports have been filed for the vandalism at the Gracemere Hall and Southside Pool, however there was limited information available.

Anyone who witnesses any suspicious behaviour or damage is encouraged to call Rockhampton Regional Council on 1300 22 55 77 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.