Why Did They Do This?

Paint was strewn around the floor of the clubhouse as well as over equipment stored in the building (Photo: Linda Little)

March 10, 2021

Damage caused to the clubhouse at Ian “Bunny” Pearce Oval in Blackbutt at the weekend has sparked outrage in the local community.

Thieves who broke into the building poured tins of paint on the floor, trophies and cabinets, smashed every window and stole a small TV.

The clubhouse housed memorabilia for the local cricket club as well as the Blackbutt Timbertowners rugby league club.

Historic photographs and trophies were vandalised, canteen equipment including a refrigerator, drinks cabinet and barbecue were damaged and a toilet vandalised.

Crude graffiti was painted on walls and items.

The community has rallied around the clubs with a clean-up scheduled to be held at the clubhouse on Saturday from 7:00am.

The Blackbutt Yarraman Kilcoy rugby league club has thanked local businesses and individuals who have volunteered to assist.

“A massive thank you goes out to the Hotel Radnor, Blackbutt Hardware, Blackbutt Fuel and everyone who is donating or pledging support for the fundraising raffle,” a spokesperson said.

“We have also received $1000 as a donation from a family to help replace the windows.”

Anyone with any information in relation to the break-in should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800-333-000. Calls can be made anonymously.