Elder 'distressed' over racist graffiti on beloved timber bridge

A racially charged incident involving profanity and racist language has been painted on Cuttagee Bridge, a historic timber structure that holds significant importance to the community on the NSW Far South Coast. The act of vandalism, which reportedly targeted an Aboriginal elder, has brought about widespread outrage in the region.

Cuttagee Bridge, constructed in 1892, has been a focal point of debate for many years, primarily due to its aging condition and the proposed changes to its structure. The bridge, which connects Bermagui and Tathra, is part of a route frequented by tourists traveling along the coast.

Phillip Coates, a resident of Barraga Bay and spokesman for the Restoration of Cuttagee Bridge group, expressed his shock at the explicit language used in the graffiti. He described the words as "sickening" and emphasized that such language is unacceptable in today's society. Mr. Coates noted that the act of vandalism was "extremely shameful and very racist."

The victim of the attack, Uncle Gary Campbell, expressed his distress over the incident, particularly the mention of his name. He remarked that those responsible for the act "have really sick minds." Mr. Campbell further stated that his family is greatly distressed by the incident.

Bega Valley Shire Council CEO Anthony McMahon condemned the act of racism and affirmed that the graffiti was removed from the bridge. He emphasized that such acts are disgusting and serve no purpose other than to offend, hurt, and create division. Furthermore, the council acknowledged the personal nature of the attack, in addition to the criminal vandalism that poses a safety risk for road users.

NSW Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact them or Crime Stoppers. Cuttagee Bridge, a single-lane timber structure, has been a subject of community and political discourse for many years. In recent times, the council has made the decision to convert the aging bridge into a two-lane hybrid bridge, featuring both concrete and decorative timber elements, as well as a shared pathway and handrails.

This decision comes with a $15 million commitment from the NSW government and an additional $15 million pledge in July.

Uncle Gary Campbell, who has openly expressed his opinions regarding the bridge's restoration, believes that the location of the graffiti was chosen deliberately, relating to the ongoing bridge saga and potential impacts on historical artifacts and burial sites.