ACT Parks and Conservation 'blitz' national park vandalism

ACT Parks and Conservation Service rangers have teamed with ACT Policing to identify and fine seven people who were guilty of using their cars to deface parkland in remote parts of the ACT.

ACT Parks and Conservation Service Regional Operations Manager Brett McNamara explained "with the help of the Rural Patrol within ACT Policing, seven drivers have been identified and fined for causing significant environmental damage to areas of the Cotter River Catchment.

"Rangers noticed that sections of the grass verge on Brindabella Road had been torn up by drivers doing 'circle work' with their vehicles. We set surveillance cameras up in response to this, which showed more vehicles damaging the area.

"ACT Policing were provided with the video footage, and were able to successfully identify the drivers and issue them with infringement notices.

"We will continue to put measures in place to catch culprits who deface our parks and reserves, in order to protect these spaces for all Canberrans to enjoy."

McNamara said ACT Parks and Conservation Service rangers and the Rural Patrol police officers have established a productive working relationship over many years.

He added "as a result of our partnership with the Rural Patrol, ACT Policing has issued a number of infringement notices in recent years to offenders detected in and around Canberra's parks and reserves.

"Police action will continue to send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated."

For more information go to www.tams.act.gov.au/parks-recreation 

6th June 2013 - VANDALS DESTROY RARE CACTI IN MELBOURNE’S ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS