Members of the Friends of the Gisborne Botanic Gardens are outraged after two deliberately lit fires at the gardens.
Group secretary Nakeshia Mason said the discovery of damage on Friday, August 8 wasn’t the first time the group had been alerted to vandalism in the gardens.
“One of our members found the burnt area initially on July 19 … and then we as a wider group became aware of it a couple of weeks back and upon going to investigate the site a bit more two of our members found that some caterpillars and grubs have been pretty much destroyed and burnt in the area,” she said.
“Unfortunately just over the weekend, we’ve found a second area in the garden so there’s been a few bushes and things burnt behind the pavilion.”
Reports were made to both Macedon Ranges council and Victoria Police about the incidents.
Mayor Dom Bonanno said council was disappointed to hear about the damage.
“This reckless behaviour has caused unnecessary damage to one of our region’s most cherished public spaces and had the potential to spread further and endanger properties and lives,” he said.
“While we hope these recent fires are isolated incidents, Council will continue to work closely with Victoria Police and the Friends of Gisborne Botanic Gardens to regenerate the affected areas where possible, and on potential practical improvements to further improve safety in the gardens.”
Ms Mason said the damage to the gardens will be ongoing, especially to the native wildlife.
Police confirmed they are investigating the fires.
Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam or CCTV footage, or anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit an online confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
