LAURIETON residents and business owners were appalled to discover hate symbols had been scrawled in a telephone box and on several signs in the town last week.
Concerned that the graffiti could cause distress, local business owner Jacob Asquith armed himself with cleaning supplies and removed the offending symbols himself.
“They were offensive,” he said.
“That sort of thing is not needed or wanted in our small community.”
Mr Asquith’s quick response demonstrated real community spirit, according to Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce president, Luke Hadfield.
“Seeing something that needs to be done and simply getting in and doing it shows real community spirit, Mr Hadfield said.
“We’re grateful to have people like Jacob in our community and proud to have him among our Chamber members.”
It is estimated that removing graffiti costs the Australian community more than $2 billion each year, with the financial burden often falling on local councils.
Port Macquarie Hastings Council offers residents one free graffiti removal kit a year and its website has information on removing and reporting graffiti.
Recognising that the vandalism is a social problem, the council also supports Graffiti Blasters, a volunteer program which enables residents to actively assist in removing graffiti from community spaces.
Graffiti vandalism is a criminal offence in NSW. A conviction can result in a fine of up to $2200, with more serious offences attracting a prison term of up to 12 months.
By Rachael THORPE
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