We may be lucky enough to be able to live and travel in one of the most beautiful places on earth and to meet some of the friendliest people on earth as we do so … but, sadly, not everyone seems to appreciate their good fortune.
The New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is calling on members of the public to help bring an end to what it has described as a ‘spate of vandalism’ in the South East Forests National Park.
And we’re not talking minor stuff here.
NPWS staff recently found a tree felled with a chain saw and two large park entry signs cut to pieces at two locations at Big Jack Mountain Picnic Area and at the entrance to the park.
“This is public property destroyed in a mindless act and our staff take a great deal of pride in their work which has been undone by really stupid people,” said NPWS area manager Franz Peters. “This isn’t the first time we’ve witnessed this type of vandalism within the park … this is a complete waste of taxpayer’s money.”
Too right, Franz. I’m angry, too.
Apparently, the matter has been reported to the police who are now investigating and anyone who knows anything about the incident is asked to contact the NPWS or the police as soon as possible.
It really is hard to get inside the heads of people who can visit these wonderful beauty spots and then leave carnage in their wake. Perhaps even harder to understand though is the behaviour of those who would do harm to, and inflict pain on, our beautiful native creatures.
Recent incidents in which one kangaroo was shot twice with a bow and arrow at Wyangala Dam near Cowra, and another was shot with an arrow in Bathurst has forced NPWS to remind people that native animals, such as kangaroos, are protected and penalties are in place for those who disobey the laws.
They really shouldn’t have to remind anyone, should they?
“In both cases, the kangaroos were left with arrows impaled in their bodies,” said “NPWS ranger Steven Woodhall. “I am shocked and appalled that anyone would want to needlessly injure a kangaroo in this way … this is incredibly cruel.”
Under the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 heavy penalties are in place for those who harm or kill native wildlife, including a maximum penalty of $11,000 and or six months in jail.
Let’s hope they catch the person or persons responsible soon.
