Locals angered after vandals graffiti 100-year-old war memorial

In Beaufort, a Victorian town, a 100-year-old war memorial that commemorates local men and women who served in wars has been desecrated by vandals. Donald Carnes, the president of the local RSL, expressed his hurt and shock over the incident. Victoria Police are currently investigating the matter and have requested anyone with information to reach out to Crime Stoppers.

The offenders had sprayed the memorial with offensive slogans, including "death to Australia," "death to the ADF," "land back," and "blood on your hands," between Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26. The vandalism took place at Beaufort Memorial Park on Havelock Street. Police have since removed the paint and are conducting an investigation.

The memorial was created in the 1920s to honor local individuals who fought in World War I. It is a site of remembrance for Anzac Day and Remembrance Day gatherings. Mr. Carnes described the vandalism as deeply hurtful and shocking, emphasizing that a significant number of the individuals honored on the memorial did not return home. The Pyrenees Shire Council also condemned the act, stating that they were deeply saddened and disappointed by the desecration of the memorial, which has remained untouched for over a century.

The council's response included the immediate removal of the graffiti and active monitoring of the site. Mayor Damien Ferrari highlighted the memorial's significance as a sacred place of remembrance, respect, and reflection. The council strongly condemned the act and pledged to restore the memorial as quickly as possible. Ripon Member for Martha Haylett called the incident "shameful" and emphasized that defacing the site that honors Beaufort's sacrifices is disgraceful. She reiterated her gratitude for the council's swift response in cleaning up the graffiti.