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Saturday 1PM:
TWO sections of a mural painted on Warrnambool’s TAFE building have been covered due to graffiti.
The Standard reported on the senseless defacing of the public artwork on Thursday, but decided not to publish a photo of the offensive graffiti.
Two panels have now been placed over the sections targeted.
“Artwork under restoration,” reads a sign posted on the panels.
EARLIER: THE head of South West TAFE says graffiti on a renowned piece of public art is extremely upsetting.
The Ngatanwarr mural, painted on TAFE’s building on the corner of Merri and Kepler streets in 2015, was defaced with offensive language and a phallic symbol.
TAFE CEO Mark Fidge said he became aware of the graffiti on Wednesday and staff and the community were very disappointed.
“Obviously our staff are very proud of the mural,” he said. He said work was underway to clean up the graffiti as quickly as possible while making sure the artwork was not damaged. “I think beyond the campus, this was something for the whole region,” he said. “It’s a real disappointment.”
World renowned artist Adnate worked ten-hour days to complete the mural.
Warrnambool police said they were still looking for the offenders and appealed for information from the community. Sergeant Greg Cressall said the damage was pointless and frustrating.
Anyone with information should call Warrnambool police on 5560 1333.