A SENSELESS act of vandalism in what is believed to be a failed theft attempt has left a community-funded organisation with a $500 damage bill.
The South East Junction – which delivers mental health support services to the community – became the target of would-be thieves who caused significant damage to a garden shed at the Ferrers Street site.
The not-for-profit organisation’s coordinator Nel Jans has reported the incident to police, believing the culprit was searching for something which could be easily sold for money.
“The shed they attempted to break into is used to store our tools, fertiliser, outdoor wear and everything we use during our gardening activities,” she said.
“We do not think they were able to get to much, but we will still have to replace the shed itself and what they have taken.
“We are not funded in anyway so it means we have to rely on donations, grants and money we have accumulated to replace it.”
A disappointed Ms Jans said she had spoken to nearby residents who had experienced similar incidents.
“Our neighbours said they had had their small trees they planted stolen three times,” she said.
“They might not be related, but it is still sad.”
Ms Jans said she estimated the damage bill was around $500.
“This person or people have invaded our privacy and space … this is not even our own property, it is owned by Country Health Connect.
“The damage might not seem like a lot, but for us it is because we never know whether we will having the funding available.
“It just is really disappointing because it is really going to come down to using the community’s money and donations we have received.”
