Racist and anti-Semitic graffiti has been spray-painted on the historic Plantagenet Battery in the Albany Forts precinct, sparking outrage from local leaders and residents. The vandalism, discovered on Sunday morning, includes swastikas, references to Adolf Hitler and Jeffrey Epstein, and a tag inciting sexual violence against Jewish people.
Discovery and Immediate Response
Albany resident Emmanuelle Lamond came across the offensive tags while walking through the area. She described feeling horrified, noting that the graffiti was clearly visible to anyone passing by. “I am assuming it was done as an offensive joke, most likely by teenagers and not intended to be taken seriously,” she said. “However, it is very disappointing and sad to see especially on such a beautiful walk. Many families and their children walk past this area.”
The blue spray paint defaces interior and exterior walls of the battery as well as nearby granite rocks. The city was informed about the incident around 10:30am on Monday.
Mayor Condemns Hateful Act
Albany Mayor Greg Stocks strongly condemned the vandalism, stating that removal was immediately prioritised and the matter reported to local police. “Given the highly offensive nature of the graffiti, its removal was immediately prioritised, and the matter has been reported to local police,” he said. “Albany is a welcoming and inclusive community, and there is no place for anti-Semitism or any form of hate. This incident is completely at odds with our community’s values, and we unequivocally reject hatred, intolerance and discrimination in all its forms. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact police.”
Historical Significance of Plantagenet Battery
Plantagenet Battery is one of two underground magazines located below the Princess Royal Fortress. Built in the 1890s, it was used to store shells, ammunition, explosives, and cordite required to fire the coastal guns that protected the harbour. The site is a popular walking area for locals and tourists, making the vandalism particularly distressing for the community.
