Metung water feature vandalised

East Gippsland Shire Council advises that the water feature at Paterson Park, Metung, remains closed after being vandalised on Monday April 22.

Council’s Parks and Gardens team started work last Tuesday to remove a substance poured into the system the day prior.

Despite having the 3000-litre water tank emptied twice and refilled to remove the contaminated water from the site (not released into storm water), there was still residual from the substance present and as a result the water feature was out of service for the Anzac Day public holiday and last weekend.

Council’s Acting Director Operations Fiona Weigall said unfortunately the water feature, popular with local and visiting families, will need to remain closed until the contaminated water can be fully removed and the system cleaned.

“It’s disappointing for children and families who regularly use the water feature and is also a very costly process for Council to clean and refill the water tanks several times without success,” Ms Weigall said.

“Vandalism like this costs the community and we encourage anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. We have notified Victoria Police of the vandalism.

“We are also mindful of not wasting water on continuing to flush the system out, at a time when the region is in drought and the water can’t be reused. As a result, the water feature will now be closed for winter and we are investigating engaging specialist contractors to clean the entire system, including the tank and four pumps, ahead of the return of warmer weather later in the year.”

Council will advise when the water feature is back in use.

The water feature at Paterson Park, Metung, remains closed after being vandalised on Monday April 22.