Fight against vandals

The City of Greater Geraldton is calling on sporting clubs to unite in the fight against vandals.

Fed up with constant attacks on clubs — particularly in the sporting centre of Eighth Street, Wonthella — the City is organising a think-tank workshop.

Vandalism and theft on sporting clubs is such an ongoing issue in Geraldton it has become virtually expected, and almost accepted.

Now it has been decided “enough is enough”.

The City of Greater Geraldton has invited clubs to address the issue — in the short and long term.

It has called on all clubs to combine forces for a common cause.

“It’s time to ram home the message vandalism will not be accepted. Vandals must realise the entire community are against them and what they’re doing, ” City Sport and Recreation club officer Ryan Thompson said.

“We want to find out what clubs may have already put in place to prevent such attacks and ask are these measures working and what can we do collectively to alleviate the problem.

“We may be opponents on the field, but I think everyone can agree to work against this issue as these actions are taking their toll on the community and club wallets.

“The implications are becoming too significant and taxpayers are the ones reaching into their pockets and paying for the clean-up of property and replacing club gear.

“Clubs need to really buy into what they want to achieve and make sure they attend the workshop to resolve the issue, otherwise it simply continues.”

City of Greater Geraldton chief executive Ken Diehm said it was hoped clubs would work collaboratively to achieve a positive outcome.

“Firstly, a key outcome will be for clubs to attend the workshop, ” he said. “In general, the community needs to take some ownership over this problem.

“Any suspicious behaviour should be reported to Crimestoppers and any criminal behaviour should be reported direct to local police.”

The workshop will be held at the City offices in April. Email Ryan Thompson: ryant@cgg.wa.gov. au.