VANDALISM of a large sign near Warrnambool’s History House has sparked community outrage and a flurry of helpers to remove the unsightly damage.
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Graffiti tags sprayed on the freshly-completed Gilles Street sign were mostly removed by yesterday afternoon, with efforts likely to continue this morning.
Warrnambool and Dis-trict Historical Society member Andrew Suggett was pleasantly surprised by offers of help as he and other members of the group used solvent and a pressure washer.
“We’ve used gallons of the citrus solvent,” he said.
“The vandalism has generated quite a depth of feeling in the community, with many calling for harsh punishment for the culprits.
“We’ll be looking at upgrading security.”
The $7000 mural depicts the former hot water sea baths, which operated from 1876 to the 1960s, below what is now the RSL.
Mayor Michael Neoh joined the chorus of outrage.
“Just when we’re talking about improving our laneways with historical themes this vandalism happens,” he said.
“Let’s hope it is a one-off.
“It is disturbing and we are deeply concerned.”
One reader of The Standard said: “This kind of rubbish you have put on a mural that people have worked hard to fund for the enjoyment of everyone is not the place for your kind of senseless tag”.