I DO not understand graffiti vandals.
What could possibly possess someone to deface other people’s property, community places and, particularly, buildings with heritage value?
Apparently, graffiti vandals want their “tags” to be recognised to up their status in the graffiti world.
Whilst the Country Times reported on the graffiti incidents from last week to try and trigger someone who may have seen or heard something, we did not wish to help increase the vandals’ status by publishing a large photo of the tags.
Graffiti must be removed quickly, as this deters vandals because their marks aren’t around long enough to be seen.
However, removing graffiti is a burden on council, business owners and volunteers. It costs time and money.
Graffiti clean-ups cost local government approximately $260million a year throughout Australia*, money which could be spent on other community projects.
Thankfully, with advances in technology, graffiti can be removed more easily than in the past in a safe and environmentally friendly manner which doesn’t damage the surface the vandalism has occurred on.
Before removing any graffiti ask yourself these few questions*:
- Has the graffiti vandalism been reported to the police, council or organisation which owns the property? If you’re not sure — report it.
- Have you taken a photograph of the graffiti vandalism for your records and the police records to help them when a vandal is charged and goes to court, or for your insurance claim (if you lodge a claim)?
- Have you taken a photo after the graffiti vandalism is removed? This again is helpful for the police and insurance companies.
Moonta is thriving at this time of year, it is the peak of the tourist season and the town’s reputation shouldn’t be ruined by a senseless few who think it’s ok to leave their mark.
Moonta has a great progress association and several other supporting community groups which work hard to make the town a great place for tourists and locals.
They should not have to spend their voluntary time cleaning up graffiti.
The best result would be if the vandals were caught and reprimanded so, if you did hear or see something suspicious, report it to police.
*Source: www.graffitihurts.com.au
Amie Brokenshire, Editor