Blaze destroys iconic Giants of Mandurah sculpture near Perth
The destruction of a popular sculpture south of Perth has sparked public outcry and a police investigation.
A local MP has slammed the “appalling act” of vandals who burned a world-renowned artist’s sculpture to cinders in Western Australia.
Firefighters and police were called to Coodanup Foreshore Reserve in Mandurah on Friday night after a blaze destroyed one of the six “Giants of Mandurah” sculptures from a new art exhibition.
The sculpture, named Vivi Cirklestone, was reduced to a pile of rubble following the fire, with Mandurah MP David Templeman condemning the actions of those responsible.
“Just so unnecessary … these art works are for kids and families to enjoy, not to be destroyed,” Mr Templeman wrote on Facebook.
“So very sad to see this appalling vandalism.”
The six sculptures in the Giants of Mandurah series, created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, were all made from recycled wood and hidden in secret locations around the Mandurah and Peel regions.
The exhibition had only been open since November 12.
Mr Templeman said the outdoor spectacle would put Mandurah and its surrounds “on the map”.
“It is wonderful that everyone will have the opportunity to appreciate these impressive sculptures while participating in a healthy, outdoor activity and enjoying quality time with their children, family and friends.”
Locals voiced their anger on social media, with one person writing on Facebook she was left “heartbroken” by the arson attack.
“I hadn’t got to visit any of the giants yet and because they were her for a year I didn’t rush,” she wrote.
“So sad that this one was destroyed by idiots getting their jollies off for five minutes and ruining lifetime memories of others.
“I feel so sad for the artist and all those who helped bring this to life.”
Shock findings in mining giant report
A mining giant boss has apologised after a review into its workplace culture exposed multiple allegations of sexual assault, bullying and racism in the past year.
Man dead after terrifying road rage incident
A man who was allegedly armed with a knife and driving erratically has been arrested after a pedestrian was hit and killed during a ‘traumatic’ incident.
State’s homelessness crisis ‘at its worst’
The housing and homelessness crisis is so bad in one major state that a peak body has called on political parties to commit to a bold election platform.