Geelong ratepayers face a potentially expensive repair or replacement bill after another attack on the historic Queen Victoria statue in Eastern Gardens – the second in a fortnight.
The memorial, which dates back to 1912, was found lying on the ground on Thursday morning after vandals ground off a bolt and pushed it over.
The words “The colony can fall” were painted on the statue’s plinth, the same message that was left when the monument was splashed in red paint on March 1.
A similar message was painted on a statue of Captain James Cook when it was felled at St Kilda in January.
Video of Wednesday night’s attack has been posted online by a group calling itself CRYM – an anocronym for Climate Resistance Youth Network.
On its website CRYM describes itself as “a network of resistance against colonial exploitation” that is “not solely focused on the climate crisis”.
The group says its aims are to “grow and spread radical politics”, “defy the state” and to “dismantle and disrupt oppressive systems”.
The post claims the video was sent to the group anonymously.
Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan told Geelong Broadcasters he couldn’t understand the mindless vandalism.
“I don’t know why we’ve got people out there that think they can attack what is publicly owned property,” he said.
Cr Sullivan said the destruction was discovered by locals taking their dog for an early morning walk, and was “incredibly disappointing”.
He said it wasn’t clear yet whether the statue could be repaired, and if it might need to be moved.
“It might have to be replaced. Is it the right location? It’s already been attacked twice in a short period of time.”
Police are investigating the latest incident and have asked anyone with information, or who may have dashcam or CCTV footage to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the website on www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
