1 September 2021

Burnouts leave Nelligen park 'unusable', anger community

| Kim Treasure
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Damage to the communty park in Maisies Lane, Nelligen

Damage to the community park in Maisies Lane, Nelligen. Photo: Facebook.

The Nelligen community has reacted angrily to the vandalism of a local park over the weekend.

Batemans Bay police are wanting to speak to anyone with information about the extensive damage caused to the park near the tennis courts in Maisies Lane, Nelligen.

The vandalism happened around midnight on Saturday (28 August) and has rendered the grounds unusable for families who regularly enjoy the park.

Police say it could cost up to $20,000 to repair the damaged surface and they are keen to hear from anyone who has more information about the incident.

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They say initial inquiries have identified a possible offending vehicle and driver, who could face charges of aggravated burnout and malicious damage.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has more information, is asked to contact Batemans Bay police on 4472 0099 (option four) or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and quote E370801994.

The damage has upset locals, who have responded on social media.

“Such a shame after the community worked so hard on the garden around that area,” one resident wrote. “Now if there are people wanting to exercise on the grass while in lockdown, they can’t!”

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Others called for swift retribution.

“Confiscate the car and crush it … then make them pay the repair bills.”

But one man had a different perspective.

“Good to see the local kids never change,” he said. “I was doing donuts on the Batemans Bay School Oval 30 years ago. This is a local right of passage.”

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