Community facilities in Far North Queensland have been left severely damaged and facing costly repairs following a brazen spree of vandalism. Cook Shire Council is dealing with the aftermath after offenders used multiple public parks and ovals for deliberate burnout sessions, tearing up grass and rendering the areas unsafe.
Extensive Damage Across Multiple Locations
The destructive incidents occurred over the weekend, targeting popular recreational spots. The most significant damage was inflicted at the Cooktown Sports Oval on May Street, a central hub for local sport and events. The vandals' vehicles carved deep ruts into the playing surface, leaving it scarred and potentially hazardous for future use.
Further vandalism was reported at the Cooktown Botanic Gardens, where a vehicle was driven onto the manicured lawns, and at the Ross Street Park. The senseless acts have not only caused visual blight but have also compromised the safety and usability of these community assets, which are funded and maintained by ratepayers.
Council and Police Launch Investigations
Cook Shire Council Mayor, Peter Scott, expressed his deep frustration and disappointment at the "mindless" and "selfish" acts of vandalism. He confirmed that council staff are now assessing the full extent of the damage to determine the repair timeline and associated costs, which will ultimately be borne by the community.
Local police have been notified and are investigating the incidents. Authorities are urging anyone with information, including potential dashcam or CCTV footage from the areas around the Cooktown Sports Oval, Botanic Gardens, and Ross Street Park over the weekend, to come forward. The community's assistance is seen as vital in identifying those responsible.
Community Outrage and Call for Vigilance
The vandalism has sparked significant anger among Cooktown residents, who value these well-maintained public spaces for recreation, sport, and family gatherings. The damage to the sports oval is particularly concerning as it disrupts scheduled sporting activities and community events.
Mayor Scott has issued a strong plea for community vigilance, asking residents to report any suspicious behaviour around public parks and facilities immediately. The council hopes that public awareness and cooperation will help prevent future incidents and protect shared community infrastructure from further harm.
Repairs are expected to be a lengthy process, requiring specialised equipment and resources to restore the ovals and parklands to a safe and playable condition. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the impact anti-social behaviour can have on small, close-knit regional communities.
