The Port Macquarie-Hastings community is being encouraged to join the fight against illegal graffiti by keeping an eye out and reporting incidents of tagging across the region.
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Graffiti vandalism currently costs the community around $94,000 each year. This is money which could be invested into roads, sporting facilities, parks and other facilities.
Council Group Manager, Lucilla Marshall, said Council’s Graffiti Blaster volunteers have been increasing their efforts to keep up with the increase in graffiti tagging across our region.
“Our Graffiti Blaster volunteers are removing around 200 tags per month from local sporting facilities, beaches and parks, community halls as well as street signs, footpaths and even our libraries,” she said.
“This is an increase of 50 percent over the same period last year. Graffiti has a significant impact on the appearance of our towns.
“It reduces confidence in public safety and can cause permanent damage to our reputation as a great place to live, work, play and invest.”
Over the recent Australia Day long weekend, areas around the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre were badly vandalised.
Anyone who witnesses incidents of graffiti vandalism is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
“Our Graffiti Blasters program is made up of many proud local residents who volunteer their time and put a lot of effort into removing graffiti from public property,” Ms Marshall said.
“We’re always on the lookout for more volunteers to join the Graffiti Blasters, and would love to hear from anyone who may have some spare time and would like to join our enthusiastic team.”
To learn more about volunteering as part of Council’s Graffiti Blasters Program visit pmhc.nsw.gov.au/volunteering or call Council’s Volunteer Coordinator on 6581 8111.