Community members have voiced their outrage after vandals defaced Kelmscott’s 100-year-old war memorial last week.
The City of Armadale and the Kelmscott-Roleystone Returned and Services League were notified of the graffiti last Thursday, which saw plaques featuring the names of Kelmscott, Roleystone and Karragullen residents that served in World War I, World War II and South-East Asia covered with black spray-paint.
Kelmscott-Roleystone RSL spokesperson Henry Zelones said he was disappointed by the incident and urged anyone with information to report it to Armadale Police.
City of Armadale mayor Ruth Butterfield echoed Mr Zelones’ sentiments and confirmed that ratepayers would be forced to foot the bill for the “senseless act”.
“The Kelmscott War Memorial is a significant site for the community to gather and reflect,” she said.
“It’s very disappointing to have such a senseless act of vandalism occur at a much loved and respected memorial.
“It is disappointing that ratepayers will be forced to cover the costs associated with addressing this act of vandalism.”
Examiner Newspapers understands the city spent more than $54,000 on graffiti removal last year alone, with most graffiti removed from council infrastructure within 24 hours of it being reported.
Darling Range candidate Hugh Jones, who is also a naval officer, said the vandalism was extremely upsetting and disrespectful and that he was confident that the culprit would come to regret their actions when they understood the significance of the memorial and of the sacrifice made.
“Vandalism like this is incredibly disrespectful to the women and men who gave up their lives in service to Australia, and to their families, friends and the community as a whole,” he said.
Residents are encouraged to report graffiti on city-owned assets by calling 9394 5000.
