Member for Davidson, Jonathan O’Dea, has called on residents to get involved in what promises to be the biggest ever Graffiti Removal Day on Sunday, October 20.
“People can participate in two ways: by nominating sites now that need cleaning up, and by lending a hand in the clean-up on October 20,” Mr O’Dea said.
“I am pleased that a wide range of community organisations will support Graffiti Removal Day this year.”
Community groups like The Scouts and the Girl Guides, as well as the Australian Men’s Shed Association (NSW Branch) have joined forces with the NSW Government and Rotary Down Under, organisers of Graffiti Removal Day. Last year over 520 volunteers took part in Graffiti Removal Day, clearing more than 8,100 square metres of graffiti across NSW.
“I encourage sporting clubs, businesses, community groups and local councils to support this worthwhile cause and volunteer their time in the fight against graffiti,” Mr O’Dea said.
“Graffiti is uniquely despised because it is ugly, senseless vandalism that leaves businesses and individuals with expensive clean-up bills unless the community pitches in.
“A strong turn-out on October 20 will send a powerful message to the graffiti vandals that the community is united in their fight against graffiti and will not tolerate such criminal and destructive activity,” Mr O’Dea said.
In its latest round of grants the NSW Government awarded more than $530,000 to help communities target graffiti hotspots by redesigning the environment to deter graffiti vandalism. The Department of Attorney General and Justice also funds the NSW Graffiti Hotline (1800 707 125) which helps fast track graffiti removal year round.
Rotary Down Under will ensure people who volunteer on Graffiti Removal Day are provided with training, graffiti removal equipment and protective gear. For more information, registration or nomination of clean-up sites, visit www.graffitiremovalday.org.au
Graffiti Removal Day will be held on Sunday, October 20 between 10am and 4pm.
