Vandalism damage to turf at Baker Square, Hamilton Hill

The City's response to PerthNow about vandalism damage to turf at Baker Square, Hamilton Hill, 21.5.24


Question: How does the City feel about this damage to Baker Square?
Answer: The City is always extremely disappointed when faced with vandalism. Our Parks Team takes great pride in the care and maintenance of the City’s parks and ovals and they are much-loved public spaces by our residents.
 
We are working hard to rehabilitate the damage as quickly as possible and repairs began on Monday.
 
If anyone witnesses vandalism like this in progress, we encourage them to report it immediately to WA Police.
 
Question: Has the damage been reported to police?
Answer: In this case, the damage has not been reported to Police. The City has been advised by WA Police to only report vandalism after-the-fact with a financial impact of over $5,000.
 
The City and WA Police still encourage residents to report vandalism in progress.
 
Question: Is there an estimated time on how long it will take for this grass to grow back?
Answer: It is estimated that the turf will take 3–4 weeks to grow back to a level where it is suitable for use by sporting groups.
 
Question: How will this impact regular users including the Cockburn Netball Club?
Answer: The area cannot be used by sporting groups, such as the Cockburn Netball Club, until the damage is repaired and the turf regrown.
 
In the short term, the City and the Club have identified two undamaged sections of the park that the club can use while rehabilitation progresses.