Syringes dumped at MERA Community Park in Morwell, parents urged to stay vigilant
A community member has urged parents to stay vigilant after a number of syringes were found scattered at a Morwell playground.
Bass Coast News
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Families have been urged to stay vigilant after dozens of syringes turned up at a Latrobe Valley playground.
This week, a Facebook user shared a post anonymously to a Morwell and surrounds community group warning parents to check playgrounds before letting their children play on the equipment.
The user had found the syringes scattered around the MERA Community Park on Beattie Crescent, before putting them into a pile.
“The amount (of syringes) I found today was absolutely disgusting let alone dangerous, some of the actual needles had been pulled out of the plastic,” the user wrote.
“They were absolutely everywhere all over the equipment too along with a bag filled with god knows what.
“I tried my best to dispose of as many as I could find.”
Morwell dad Arnold Roberts, who takes his son to the park occasionally, said it was a “disgrace” to find out how it was left.
“It’s very, very concerning, there are so many families around here and that’s a hazard to a lot of children who might not know what they are picking up,” Mr Roberts said.
“I’m just really shocked about it, how can some people be so inconsiderate of others and their kids who use the playground?
“It must stop now.”
A Latrobe City Council spokesperson said council’s operation team removed the items from the park within one hour of notice.
“Council officers also conducted a full inspection of the park for any further items requiring disposal,” the spokesperson said.
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In April last year, syringes were also found at Apex Park on Waterloo Rd in Moe.
Anyone who finds discarded syringes in public areas should contact council’s customer service team on 1300 367 700.
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