A heritage sign in North Wagga has been stolen having just been installed on Thursday (17 February). Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Wagga Wagga City Council has denounced the theft of a North Wagga Wagga heritage sign at the weekend and called for its immediate return.
The stolen sign is one of 26 installed last Thursday (17 February). The sign details the history of the old North Wagga Wagga Police Station in Hampden Avenue.
Facilitated by the North Wagga Wagga Residents Association and supported by a $20,000 grant from the council, the signs are featured on a trail winding through the village.
Deputy Mayor Jenny McKinnon said the disappointing actions of the perpetrator shows disrespect to the people of North Wagga.
“Removing the sign would not have been an impetuous act as the metal signs are not small or light. They weigh around 70 kilograms each and are anchored into 30 kilograms of concrete, so it would have taken quite a bit of effort to remove it,” said Cr McKinnon.
Local historian Sherry Morris began research on the heritage trail project in late 2020, working alongside her husband Peter and the residents association to write, manufacture and install the signs around the village.
Peter Morris was in disbelief that someone might find it funny to steal one of the signs.
“This project involved a lot of hard work by residents and volunteers committed to bringing the long and fascinating history of this village to light,” Mr Morris said.
“This is a thoughtless act which shows a lack of consideration for all those who put in the time, effort and money to see this project realised.”
Organisers estimate that the total project cost about $120,000.
Anyone with information that may help find the sign is encouraged to reach out to the North Wagga Wagga Residents Association or contact Wagga Wagga Police Station at 02 6922 2599.
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