Iconic Wattle Park trams desperately waiting for restorations after being vandalised, left to rust

The historic crowning jewels of an eastern suburbs park are boarded off to the public after they were targeted by vandals.

Two heritage trams have been boarded up after they were vandalised in Wattle Park, Burwood.

Two heritage trams that are the highlight of a Melbourne park have been blocked off to visitors after they were vandalised.

The trams, which reside in the picnic area of Wattle Park, were built between 1923 and 1956.

The shells of the trams were placed in the park in 2013, and have since been used as picnic shelters and play areas by park visitors.

The Wattle Park trams have been constantly vandalised and were installed to replace two trams which was burnt out by vandals in 2011 and 2012.

The Wattle Park picnic area has recently undergone an extensive facelift in October last year with a new playground including a double storey tram fort, running track, barbecues, picnic shelters and more.

The new playground at Wattle Park.

Graffiti and rust litter the tram shells and the roof has caved in on one of the models.

Parks Victoria operates the park and has placed signs on the trams reading “restorations works are coming”.

“Access to the trams and surrounding areas will be closed to ensure the safety of our visitors and staff,” the sign reads.

The roof has caved in on one of the trams.

Parks Victoria regional director Sofia de Lesantis said plans had been made to restore the trams.

“Plans to restore two heritage-listed trams at Wattle Park are underway, after severe vandalism to these iconic structures forced their closure for public safety,” she said.

“Work is expected to start later this year, pending contractor availability and heritage approvals.

“We will continue to keep the community updated on timelines after a contractor has been awarded the works.”

The trams are awaiting restoration.

Burwood mother Natalie Eakin said it was sad to see the trams in such “poor condition.”

“Why would anyone want to vandalise trams children use to play on?” she said.

“My kids loved playing on the trams when they were younger and it just sad to see the condition they are in.”

Mrs Eakin said the new park facilities were fantastic but she was keen to see the trams restored.

“The trams have been in this park longer than I can remember,” she said.

“Right now they look like such an eyesore compared to the new playground.”