Alleged Pam the Bird graffiti vandal, Jack Gibson-Burrell, speaks after Geelong bail move
The man allegedly behind the infamous “Pam the Bird” tag has spoken for the first time since being granted bail to live with his tough-talking grandmother in Geelong.
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The man allegedly behind the infamous “Pam the Bird” tag has spoken for the first time since being granted bail to live with his tough-talking grandmother in Geelong.
Jack Gibson-Burrell, 21, was granted bail on Thursday with strict conditions after he was arrested and charged with more than 50 offences over graffiti on trains, buildings and landmarks in Geelong and Melbourne.
Police allege he is solely responsible for dozens of Pam the Birds tags, including on a CBD silo on Mercer St.
Melbourne’s Flinders Street station clock, the “Cheese Stick” above CityLink and Novotel at South Wharf were also damaged.
Mr Gibson-Burrell and his grandmother, Joan Bell, were asked for comment on Friday following his court win that has seen him move to East Geelong.
“Not a chance,” was Mr Gibson-Burrell’s response.
It comes as a source close to the owners of the Geelong silos say there are no plans in place to remove the artwork, and it could remain indefinitely.
City of Greater Geelong executive director of city infrastructure James Stirton confirmed that due to the art being located on the privately owned silos, the responsibility to clean it fell on the owners.
“As the silos require specialist removal contractors due to their height and structure, the council is unable to assist with the removal of graffiti from this location,” Mr Stirton said.
“However, we do provide support to property owners for graffiti removal on surfaces at ground level, which are visible from public spaces.
“The City of Greater Geelong offers a range of services to help property owners with graffiti removal, and full details can be found on the Geelong Australia website.”
Magistrate Johanna Metcalf ordered Mr Gibson-Burrell surrender his passport, report to police twice a week and not possess graffiti or abseiling equipment as part of his conditions.
He is also under a night-time curfew.
Ms Metcalf told the court she was persuaded to grant bail after hearing evidence from Ms Bell.
“She has a bond with the accused and clearly wants to assist him,” the magistrate said.
“She impressed me as an honest, no nonsense witness and a capable person.”
The court heard he also has offers of employment, including with a Geelong painter, and a $30,000 surety available.
Ms Bell earlier told the court she was happy to house her grandson but warned it was “my house, my rules”.
The damage bill of his alleged work is estimated to be worth more than $200,000.
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Originally published as Alleged Pam the Bird graffiti vandal, Jack Gibson-Burrell, speaks after Geelong bail move
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