MUSWELLBROOK Shire Council is preparing to undertake its fourth annual Graffiti Removal Day, as it looks to improve the town’s aesthetics.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Scheduled for October 21, the event will look to not only remove graffiti but, in some areas, actually replace it with murals which will be painted by school students.
One of the focuses is a tag-riddled walkway behind the Osborn Bus Depot, which is used by many children on their walk to and from Muswellbrook South Public School.
The depot’s one of several businesses who have nominated to have their premises seen to by the council and the raft of volunteers who give up their time to tidy up the community.
Hunter Valley Police District Senior Constable Sheree Gray, from the Muswellbrook Police Station, is jointly in charge of the event – and said she believes they’re making an impact.
“It’s reducing each year, the problem… we see bits pop up every now and then but generally speaking it’s pretty good,” she said.
She also said the event was gaining popularity and attracting more numbers to help out every year.
“We started off with about 12 people and each year it’s increased,” Senior Constable Gray admitted.
“In 2017, we had more than 30 people come.
“We’re expecting about the same this year if not a bit more.”
The Senior Constable added street art could be quite problematic if it’s not done in good spirit, which is why the council and police were so focused on dealing with the issue.
“Although some people are quite talented, some of the graffiti that’s not very nice installs fear in people… but hopefully with the mural it will look nice,” she said.
“There are a lot of school children who are coming through [this spot] and we’re hoping they’re going to be involved, so they’ll take ownership of the area as well.”
Aspiring volunteers are encouraged to contact Senior Constable Gray via the police station on 6542 6999.
Registrations on the day will be from 8.30 to 9 am at the Muswellbrook Aquatic Centre carpark, and the cleaning will wrap up at approximately noon, before the helpers are treated to free entry and a barbeque back at the pool.