...By Gift BADEWO for TDPel Media.
A case of environmental vandalism has occurred at a revered mountain location, sparking outrage among the local community and authorities.
The individual responsible could potentially face significant legal repercussions.
This instance of blatant disrespect for both natural beauty and cultural heritage underscores the importance of environmental preservation and respect for indigenous lands.
Defacing a Protected Mountain: The Act
Mount Beerwah, situated within the Glasshouse Mountains in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, has become the recent target of vandalism.
An unidentified individual, suspected to have used a power tool, etched a religious phrase into the rock face of the mountain during the night of May 20th or 21st.
The act has been widely criticized as an example of environmental vandalism, and the crudeness of the carving has elicited particular disdain.
Potential Legal Consequences
The individual, if found, could face severe penalties under the Nature Conservation Act and the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act.
These penalties could include hefty fines amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars or even up to two years in prison.
The severity of these potential repercussions underscores the gravity of the crime and the strict laws protecting natural and cultural sites.
Restoration and Indigenous Involvement
The local Indigenous community, the Jinibara, who are the traditional owners of Mount Beerwah, will play a crucial role in the restoration efforts.
The aim is to minimize the aesthetic damage caused by the act of vandalism.
This instance highlights the invaluable contribution of Indigenous communities in preserving and rehabilitating natural and culturally significant sites.
Rangers’ Stance and Additional Costs
Senior ranger Nat Smith has emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards such acts of disrespect towards the national park.
The graffiti, regardless of its content, is viewed as a despicable act, leaving an unsightly and offensive mark on the natural landscape.
Moreover, the perpetrator would bear the burden of additional restoration costs, which could amount to tens of thousands of dollars on top of any levied fines.
Jinibara and Respect for the Mountain
The Jinibara traditional owners have previously voiced their opposition to individuals climbing on Mount Beerwah, thus emphasizing the need for respect for the natural and cultural values of the area.
The deliberate and destructive act of vandalism stands in stark contrast to these values, leading to a call for community members to assist in identifying the responsible individual.
