Vandalism is a curse which plagues many communities. It is mindless destructive behaviour. Like graffiti, it’s ironically counter productive in some ways to be discussing it because the vandals have no shame and take satisfaction from publicity.
It’s unfortunate the long-term future of Mount Gambier’s Dimjalla Skatepark is now in doubt because of vandals.
Ongoing violent rampages at the community-owned facility have forced the city council to lock the toilets at night and even consider closing them altogether.
At risk of sounding ageist, the likelihood is the vandals are young people who are spoiling a recreational asset used by their peers.
Recent debate has highlighted the lack of facilities for young people in Mount Gambier. Here a facility exists and it’s being destroyed presumably by a violent minority of the people it was designed for.
There is no easy solution to overcoming stupidity. Council is right to lock the toilets, but should think carefully before closing them.
Increased security, police patrols and other deterrents should be investigated.
If the culprits are caught, and found to be under 18, their parents should be held financially liable for the destruction. The perpetrators should be ordered to do community service, which might include cleaning the toilets they like to deface.
It would be refreshing also if someone came forward to identify those who are committing these acts.
Hopefully one person in the group, or one of their acquintances, has a conscience and enough civic pride to do the right thing.
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