Sunshine Coast Council is counting the cost of a wave of vandalism along the region’s main beachfront.
Local authorities have condemned a string of incidents along Mooloolaba Esplanade, which is a window to the area for many visitors.
Repairs have been repeatedly undone, in some cases within days, while security measures installed at sites have also been damaged.
There were nine incidents from late June to mid-August, and a police investigation.
A council representative said officials were battling to put a stop to the spree.
“Council is extremely disappointed by the ongoing vandalism and anti-social behaviour at public amenities and surrounding park areas at the Mooloolaba Northern Foreshore,” they said.
“Recent incidents have caused significant damage to toilet facilities, park infrastructure and security measures installed to help protect the area.
“Council has repeatedly repaired damaged amenities, including replacing doors, wall panels and other fixtures, only to see further damage occur shortly afterwards.
“In some instances, repairs have been vandalised within days of being completed.”
The spokesperson said the damage bill was adding up.
“The public amenities building vandalism is costly to repair with the last five incidences between June and July costing approximately $46,500.”
But the flow-on affects could be worth much more, as the region’s reputation as a welcoming destination takes a hit.
“Beyond the financial cost, this ongoing behaviour affects residents and visitors who rely on these facilities and expect them to be safe, clean and accessible,” the spokesperson said.
“Council resources, that could otherwise be directed towards improving community facilities, are instead being spent on repairing deliberate damage.”
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The spokesperson said it was difficult to monitor the situation.
“Security measures have been installed at the site. However, these too have been targeted and damaged.”
Police have been called to multiple disturbances involving large groups of youths in the area.
Maroochydore Station Officer in Charge Senior Sergeant Jacob Flaherty said, earlier in August, that youths creating disturbances could expect to see police anywhere, anytime.
“We are also asking parents to work with police in preventing and disrupting any possible anti-social behaviour or offending,” he said.
“Be aware of your child’s whereabouts, who they are with, and what activities they are undertaking.”
Police also issued a warning to parents and teenagers in the Buddina area, after disturbances involving groups of youths there.
The council representative said locals were urged to help keep an eye on local facilities.
“We continue to work closely with Queensland Police and encourage anyone who witnesses vandalism or anti-social behaviour to report it to police.
“Protecting public spaces is a shared responsibility, and everyone deserves to enjoy these community facilities respectfully.”
