Graffiti rehab deal

THREE local projects have been given a boost with State Government funding in a bid to reduce graffiti across the region.

The City of Swan’s Urban Stylin’ program was given $17,275 to combat the high volume of graffiti and vandalism in the hotspots of Ellenbrook, Bullsbrook, Ballajura, Lockridge and Beechboro.

Police Minister Rob Johnson last week announced the grants as part of the State Government’s Graffiti Fund, to assist local communities in cleaning up and preventing graffiti.

Jason Bridges from the City of Swan said the Urban Stylin’ program aimed to engage youth who have been, or may be involved in graffiti vandalism and introduce them to legitimate public art as an enterprise.

“It also aims to improve the aesthetics of facilities in the City of Swan and reduce graffiti,” he said.

“Young people will be guided by a professional artist to design and paint artworks on public facilities.

“Those who show interest and talent will be selected for the second phase of the project which will equip them with small business skills and support to establish their own urban art business.”

The funding coincides with the announcement that the East Metropolitan Crime Prevention Unit will be piloting a new graffiti reduction and management program in conjunction with the Office of Crime Prevention.

A forum incorporating the City of Swan, the Town of Bassendean and the Shires of Kalamunda and Mundaring will examine creating a unified approach to reducing graffiti.

Interest is sought from local businesses and schools that are affected by graffiti and wish to be part of the pilot project.

A forum to discuss and formulate an action plan has been arranged for July, and will include a presentation detailing the multi-faceted graffiti reduction project, followed by a discussion.

Interested parties should contact First Class Constable Robyn Cottman at the East Metro Crime Prevention Unit on 9250 4199 by June 25.

Mr Bridges said the City would also be utilising Oscar, a mobile CCTV unit in key areas to help reduce incidences of graffiti, vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

The Shire of Chittering was also given $12,799 to allow it to buy a high pressure cleaner, and the Midland PCYC will employ a youth worker to provide mentoring and counselling to reduce graffiti with a boost of $18,392.

What everyone else is thinking

poster

30/06/2010

Ignorance is just one of the many reasons graffiti is going to continue growing and expanding.

gazza

16/06/2010

Why not sink more funds into hidden cameras, set up in boxes like those at intersections...the vandals will then not know if there is a camera or not...and greatly increase the penalties for those caught...including full reparation from their dole even if it takes the rest of their life...