AN estimated one hundred and twenty metres of treated hardwood top posts of the guardrail along a walking track at the Ballan Mineral Springs site have allegedly been stolen.<\/p>\n
Moorabool Shire Council staff have described the posts’ disappearance, which they believe is a theft, as “selfish” and are calling for their return.<\/p>\n
“We are very disappointed that the railing posts of the guardrail on the Ballan Mineral Springs walking track were stolen,” Moorabool Shire mayor Cr Paul Tatchell said.<\/p>\n
“This selfish act not only costs ratepayers because damage needs to be fixed, but it causes safety risks to users of the track.<\/p>\n
“We are urging anyone who knows anything about the theft to report it to council and to Crime Stoppers (1800 333 000).<\/p>\n
“We don’t want to see things like this occur in our beautiful parks and walking trails \u2013 it’s a very low act.”<\/p>\n
On its website, the Shire made a statement.<\/p>\n
“We strongly urge the person or persons responsible to return the stolen posts immediately,” the statement said.<\/p>\n
“Council is taking this matter seriously and will be addressing the damage as a priority.<\/p>\n
“In the meantime, we advise all users to exercise caution around this area and to report any suspicious activity.<\/p>\n
“Let’s work together to ensure our public spaces remain safe and enjoyable for everyone.”<\/p>\n
Adjacent to the Bostock Reservoir, the small Ballan Mineral Reserve has spring water comparable to that of Hepburn Springs.<\/p>\n
Narrow walking tracks make their way down to the mineral spring tap, where picnic tables, bench seating and an undercover area is provided along the small, seasonal river.<\/p>\n
Those willing to find their way down the slope are treated to views of the river valley lying close to the riverbed.<\/p>\n
That spot is filled with butterflies during summer and is regarded as a great place for either a picnic lunch or a quick stop on the way to Bostock Reservoir.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
AN estimated one hundred and twenty metres of treated hardwood top posts of the guardrail along a walking track at the Ballan Mineral Springs site have allegedly been stolen. Moorabool Shire Council staff have described the posts’ disappearance, which they believe is a theft, as “selfish” and are calling for their return. “We are very […]<\/p>\n