Richmond’s iconic Molly Meldrum statue removed for repairs after digger vandal attack

Wangaratta Street Park could go without its iconic Molly Meldrum statue until Christmas after vandals damaged the monument while trying to dig it up.

Ian “Molly” Meldrum stands with the larger-than-life bronze statue of himself and his adored dog, Ziggy. Picture: Nicole Cleary

Richmond’s iconic Molly Meldrum statue could be under repair until Christmas following a vandal attack last month.

The Molly Meldrum statue in Richmond was vandalised by unidentified diggers last month. Picture: Instagram

The statue, created by artist Louis Lauman, stands in Wangaratta Street Park behind the Corner Hotel, and is a larger-than-life bronze of the famed music guru with his adored dog, Ziggy, tucked under his arm.

The monument was unveiled in 2018 and while loved by locals has also been something of a trouble magnet.

In 2023 the bronze Molly was vandalised with red paint daubed on its eyes and face like blood, Ziggy painted red and graffiti sprayed on the statue’s coat and leg.

It was repaired, but now the statue has been vandalised a second time.

The Molly Meldrum statue was defaced with red paint last year.

Last month an attempt was made to dig up the Molly monument — whether the intention was to steal it or simply topple it over is unknown.

But the unauthorised digging and scraping left the footing of the statue damaged and the City of Yarra Council quickly took the statue away for repair.

The culprits have not been found and the famous Molly bronze has so far been absent from its post for a month.

In what might be a Christmas miracle, it is hoped Molly will take pride of place back in Wangaratta Street Park before the festive season.