NEW FACILITY, SAME ANTICS NEW PUMP TRACK VANDALISED A WEEK AFTER OPENING

Burdekin Shire Council announced on Facebook that foundational infrastructure for an incoming water fountain at the site had been “ripped from the asphalt.” Photo: Burdekin Shire Council.

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A new near-million dollar pump track has become the latest victim of vandalism in the Burdekin just days after being unveiled.

Government officials cut the ribbon on the facility at Anzac Park earlier this month, after more than a year of planning and development.

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But within a week, Burdekin Shire Council announced that foundational infrastructure for a water fountain at the site had been “ripped from the asphalt.”

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A Council spokesperson said the damage has stalled the delivery of the fountain, with ratepayer funds redirected to repairs instead of improving other parks and facilities.

The incident is the latest in a string of vandalism cases reported across the region, with damage to war memorial signage at Charlie’s Hill, the destruction of public lavatory facilities in Alva Beach, and damage to public plant boxes all reported since last December, among other incidents.

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Council said it was “disappointed” by the damage to the newly opened pump track and urged residents to take greater care of public facilities.

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“We encourage everyone to take pride in our shared community spaces and help us keep them safe for everyone to enjoy,” the spokesperson said.

“Together, we can help protect the places that bring our community together.”

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