Aboriginal memorial remembering the Stolen Generation defaced in southwest Sydney

An Aboriginal memorial remembering the Stolen Generation has been deliberately defaced. The damage bill of the “shocking” incident is expected to reach $50,000.

The memorial has been closed as police investigate the incident.

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An Aboriginal memorial remembering the Stolen Generation has been deliberately defaced in Mt Annan, with the damage bill expected to reach $50,000.

The sandstone statue located in The Australian Botanic Gardens Mt Annan was carved by renowned Aboriginal sculptor Uncle Badger Bates and has been open to the public since 2007.

The statue was first opened to the public in 2007.

In a social media post, the Gardens said the “disrespectful act of vandalism” has impacted the entire community.

“The Stolen Generation’s memorial at the Australian Botanic Garden Mt Annan is a place of healing that represents reconciliation and remembrance so it is with great sadness and disappointment to see that it has been defaced,” the post stated

“The area will be closed to visitors while police investigate this shocking incident and the necessary repairs are made.”

The memorial was a “place of reflection”.

Camden Police Area Command is investigating the incident and urge anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the precinct between 10am Wednesday and 10.45am Thursday to come forward.

Anyone who was in the area during that time – particularly if they visited the Garden – or who witnessed suspicious activity to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.