Police investigate $3000 worth of damage at Cowwarr Weir area committed by alleged offenders

Police are investigating multiple incidents where drivers have ploughed into bollards and street signs at a popular Gippsland swimming spot causing extensive damage.

Vandals have caused extensive damage at a popular Gippsland swimming and barbecue spot, ploughing into bollards and street signs.

Police are investigating the attacks at popular Cowwarr Weir that happened between April 13 and April 20.

“CCTV cameras are installed and Southern Rural Water are taking a hard stance on the ongoing damages to their property,” a police spokesperson said.

“The damage bill is already in excess of $3000 — and this is unacceptable.”

Some of the wooden fences that were damaged at the Cowwarr Weir. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Bollards were destroyed and taken out of the soil. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Police are appealing for further information in order to assist with their inquiries.

“Cowwarr Weir is a popular and important recreational facility valued by the Gippsland community —Southern Rural Water is proud to manage this beautiful park that is valued by generations of Gippslanders,” Southern Rural Water manager Headworks Ed Smith said.

A street sign at the weir was also damaged, believed to be caused by the alleged offenders. Picture: Jack Colantuono

A street sign at the weir was also damaged, believed to be caused by the alleged offenders. Picture: Jack Colantuono Picture: Jack Colantuono

A police spokesperson said if the criminal activity were to continue, it was possible Southern Rural Water could close the “important community facility” off to the public, but Mr Smith confirmed on Monday it would not be closing.

“Community members can play a role in protecting the park by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 if they have any information on the incidents or observe suspicious behaviour,” he said.

A “one way” sign that was damaged. Picture: Jack Colantuono

An arrow near a sharp bend at the weir was crooked. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Anyone who witnessed the incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria, make an anonymous report online or contact the Heyfield police station on [phone].