Anger lingers over destruction of Man on the Monument

Damage to Walgett’s iconic ‘Man on the Monument’ has brought community condemnation from residents in Walgett Shire. Inset – Mayor of Walgett Shire Council, Jasen Ramien. PhotoS supplied

Story: Kristin Murdockkmurdock@outbackradio.com.au

Walgett Shire Council is continuing to grapple with community anger following the destruction in January of the “Man on the Monument” – the century old marble soldier located within the ANZAC memorial at Walgett’s Memorial Park.

Mayor of Walgett Shire, Jasen Ramien, said that a grievous response has been widespread and deeply felt across the Walgett community.

Central North Police District Commander, Superintendent Gerard Lawson said the matter had been dealt with through the youth justice process.

“That process unfolds in the background; we don’t make comment about that, because kids under the age of 18 are entitled to anonymity, so we don’t provide their names,” Superintendent Lawson said.

Supt Lawson said the young people did not go to the site with intent to cause damage.

“These kids did not go there with any intent to do any damage to the statue. The damage happened because of the kids being there and they shouldn’t have been there.” […]

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