Swan Hill Rural City Council is deeply disappointed to report that the spectacular Christmas lights installed on the Rotunda at Riverside Park in Swan Hill have been destroyed by vandals over the weekend.
Council's Mayor, Cr Stuart King, said the lights that formed part of a trail of Christmas lights, were installed to bring joy, celebrate the festive season, and create a warm, inviting environment for residents and visitors alike.
"The Christmas lights were carefully designed to bring some festive spirit to the community during this wonderful time of year. However, this act of destruction undermines the hard work and the positive intentions behind these installations.
"Council is tasked with creating appealing spaces that attract visitors to our region, and this incident highlights the challenges we face in bringing positive experiences like these to life.
It's particularly disheartening that, during a time when we should be coming together to celebrate and support one another, we are instead left to express our disappointment over this kind of behaviour," Cr King said.
Cr King said Council was working with local Police to investigate the incident.
"While we are disheartened by this act, we remain committed to providing a welcoming and vibrant community for all to enjoy.
"We hope that the spirit of the season will inspire us all to come together, support one another, and protect the things that bring us joy," Cr King added,
Council encourages anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.
"Please remember that when you are out and about in our wonderful municipality and you see something that doesn't look right, please say something," Cr King urged.
Council encourages all residents to please report anti-social activity to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Crimestoppers 1800 333 000.
