Council probes park nails

Pieces of jagged metal and nails were found in areas around Queens Park in Healesville, and have been reported to police. 161558 Picture: Jesse Graham

By Jesse Graham

COUNCIL is investigating a report of jagged metal and nails being placed around Queens Park in Healesville, after good Samaritans raised the alarm.
Two Healesville residents, who asked not to be named, notified council, the police and the Mail about pieces of jagged metal and nails they spotted around Queens Park on 24 October.
The people said they noticed the metal was stuck in places where people or children could have hit them by accident and cut themselves.
Yarra Ranges Council’s director of Environment and Engineering Mark Varmalis said the council had been notified, and that council’s Parks and Bushlands team visited the site and removed the “debris”.
“The incident is being investigated,” he said.
He said the team monitored parks across the Yarra Ranges, inspecting lawn areas and garden beds and collecting litter “one to two times per week”.
When items like the nails are found, they are disposed of and any vandalism is reported to police, Mr Varmalis said.
“Where possible, council’s litter enforcement officer will investigate who was responsible for dumping rubbish,” he said.
“The Parks and Bushlands team appreciates residents contacting council. The community has the right to be safe and enjoy these spaces.
“Contact the police if you spot vandalism – If the material is dangerous or sharp, contact the council on 1300 368 333 to have it removed.”