Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers are investigating after a power tool was used to cut graffiti into a section of rock on one of the region’s most iconic landmarks.
The rock at the base of Mount Beerwah, in the Glass House Mountains National Park, is believed to have been vandalised on May 20 or 21.
QPWS senior ranger Nat Smith said it was believed the offence occurred at night.
“A power tool appears to have been used to cut graffiti into the rock near the base of the summit route,” Mr Smith said.
“Regardless of what it says, the graffiti is a terrible act. It looks clumsy and awful, and rangers and the community take a zero-tolerance approach to offences like this in our national parks.
“It is difficult to understand the mindset of the people who did this and the lack of respect they have for the natural and cultural values of the national park.
“The mountain is an iconic feature of the Sunshine Coast and extremely important to the Jinibara People, the local Traditional Owners, and to the people of Queensland.
“To have it defaced like this is appalling and QPWS will work with the Jinibara People to minimise the long-term visual damage.”
Mr Smith said the QPWS was asking for public assistance in identifying the person or people involved.
“This vandalism is deliberate and destructive, and someone in the community will know who did it,” he said.
“The rock has been here for millions of years, and environmental vandalism in our national parks is extremely disappointing.
“I encourage anyone with information to call the department on (07) 5494 3983, or make an anonymous call on 1300 130 372.
“The vandalism is a serious offence under the Nature Conservation Act 1992 and carries a maximum penalty of $431,250 or two years’ imprisonment.
“It’s also an offence under the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003, with penalties of up to $143,750 for individuals.
“In addition, the person or persons responsible could be liable for the cost of rehabilitating the site, which may cost tens of thousands of dollars.
“Anyone who defaces our national parks will be fined because rangers investigate every incidence of environmental vandalism.”
For more on Mount Beerwah’s cultural significance to the Jinibara People click here.
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