Ipswich City Council candidates frustrated by vandals, trolls in lead up to March 19 election

Trespass, trolling, and the vandalism of election signage have surfaced as the race for a spot on this southeast Queensland council heats up.

Division 3 candidate Jim Dodrill said his election signs were sprayed with lewd graffiti. Vandalism, trespass and trolling have been experienced by Ipswich City Council candidates.

REPORTS of trespass, trolling, and the vandalism of election signage have surfaced as the race for a spot on Ipswich City Council heats up.

Division 9 candidate Darren Baldwin said he had been trolled on Facebook by users with fake profiles, while another man had entered his yard at night.

“My wife scared a guy off our property at 10pm who was trying to steal my sign,” he said. “Over the weekend they just snapped it off and threw it in bushes.”

Division 3 candidate Jim Dodrill said his election signs were sprayed with lewd graffiti.

“On one hand it is disappointing and frustrating but ... it indicates the desperation of those who oppose my message of change.” he said.

Division 9 candidate Jade Connor and Division 2’s Paul Tully said they had not been aware of any nastiness.

Division 1 candidate Steven Purcell and Division 3’s Danny Donohue said they would not be deterred by any negative attacks.

• The Ipswich City Council elections will be held on Saturday March 19. Polls open at 8am and close at 6pm. For further information visit ecq.qld.gov.au