THE call has gone out for more volunteers to tackle illegal graffiti and tagging in the community.
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Port Macquarie-Hastings Council launched a program called Graffiti Busters in mid-March that called for volunteers to help with the problem. But nearly two months later the initiative is running low in participation numbers.
The re-branded Graffiti Blasters is in dire need of more volunteers for the six-month trial period.
Historically there has been a feverish reaction, particularly online, to the issue of illegal graffiti with many voicing concern at visible disfiguring of public and private spaces.
Unfortunately that has yet to translate into many volunteers signing-up.
"Council is working on numerous fronts to combat continued tagging by a very small group in the community, but we need the community's help to make a real difference," community economic director Tricia Bulic said.
She reinforced council's determination to stop illegal graffiti long-term.
The trial includes working with corporate partners like Essential Energy and Telstra to create legal spaces.
Simon Luxton painted the authorised work on the Essential Energy padmount outside Port Macquarie's library, and it hasn't been touched or interferred with at all since it was unveiled in mid-March.
Mrs Bulic pointed to the efficacy of similar trials in other local governments areas on the NSW coast.
But the fact remains, it will only work with a committed crew operating the Graffiti Blasters' specialist vehicle and council equipment.
There is plenty of flexibility to get involved , with three-hour volunteer shifts available from 9am until 12pm or 1pm until 4pm Monday to Friday.
To register interest in becoming a Graffiti Blaster, complete the form at www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au/graffitiblasters.
More information is available by phoning Council's volunteer coordinator on 6581 8668 or email jacqui.morgan@pmhc.nsw.gov.au