FRANK Heap simply shook his head and asked himself “why would anyone do it?”
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That was the question the Lions Club of Aberdeen charter member raised just before Christmas when he found two big sprinklers stolen from Jockey Club Park – a location he’s maintained for more than four decades.
And, today, a month later, he’s still at a loss about the incident.
“I put my heart and soul into looking after this area, along with a few other people,” Mr Heap said.
“We tend to the grounds, at Jockey Club Park and the Rose Garden in Dangar Park, voluntarily.
“It makes no sense [to take the sprinklers] – I think it’s a nasty, stupid thing to do.
“Because it had been so hot and dry, we had them going day and night.
“So, when I turned up one morning, I thought someone turned the water off.
“Then I realised they [both sprinklers] had been stolen.
“At least the thief or thieves left the hoses.
“Unfortunately, we’ve had a few issues with vandals in the past.
“But, I’ve heard similar [sprinkler] thefts have occurred in town in recent times, which is sad.
“It’s a crying shame that people have little respect for other’s property.”
One of the Lions Club of Aberdeen’s major projects was the creation of Jockey Club Park in 1971.
So, the place has special meaning to Mr Heap.
“We’re a small group of volunteers,” he admitted.
“Paul and Heather Hobbs have done a wonderful job at the Rose Garden for the past 18 years, too.
“However, a lot of people utilise Jockey Club Park, especially with Croft’s Pies across the road.
“We like to have it nice for the community – and the tourists.
“But, it’s a bit hard when things like this happen.”
The Lions Club of Aberdeen is also seeking more members.
“It’s a great organisation,” Mr Heap said.
“In 2016-17, we handed out $19,000 to the community, including donations to the Sir Ivan Bushfire Appeal and local girl Isabella Roughan to attend the Space Academy.
“However, we need some new faces to help the older members.”
If anyone is interested in joining the Lions Club of Aberdeen, contact Frank Heap on 6343 7390, Bob Dixon on 6543 8132 or David Murphy on 0429 002 451.