For the second time in just over 12 months, a treasure seeker has caused considerable damage to Council’s underground irrigation pipes in the Bargara Streetscape area.
Several damaged pipes will need to be repaired after a person operating a metal detector mistakenly identified metal fittings on Councils pipes as buried valuables.
Divisional representative Cr Greg Barnes said the costly mistake bore a significant resemblance to a similar incident in September last year.
“Council believes the metal detector operator, alerted by the presence of metal clips on the irrigation system, has used a shovel to access the objects, causing damage to the pipes,” Cr Barnes said.
“In this area Council uses sub-surface drip irrigation, so damage to one section renders the entire network of pipes ineffective.
“Repairs will require a significant amount of time and money which could otherwise have been spent on proactive improvement of the region’s parks and gardens.”
Health and Regulatory Services portfolio spokesperson Cr Wayne Honor said Council had no issue with people utilising metal detectors in a responsible manner but stressed that this should not be carried out on Council controlled property.
“It is inappropriate for this equipment to be utilised in areas where digging can result in damage to Council, and possibly other service providers’, infrastructure,” Cr Honor said.
“They certainly should not be digging in grassed areas on Council controlled property.
“We simply ask that people pursuing hobbies of this nature act responsibly. If offenders are identified then Council will consider appropriate action if damage is caused.
Anyone witnessing the use of metal detectors in this section of foreshore parkland are urged to contact Council on 1300 883 699.
ENDS
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