GRAFFITI continues to pose a growing challenge across our community. In response, on Thursday 13 June, Julian Leeser MP and Alister Henskens MP convened a crucial meeting with various community organisations to address the escalating graffiti issue that has plagued Normanhurst, Thornleigh, and Pennant Hills since December 2023.
The meeting focused on devising a comprehensive strategy for graffiti removal and prevention. A key outcome was the decision to organise a community-driven “graffiti blitz day” scheduled for Saturday, August 3. This event aims to rally local residents to collectively combat the graffiti surge in these suburbs. Participants will receive the necessary training and resources to effectively remove graffiti from public spaces.
Reflecting on the severity of the issue, Julian Leeser MP remarked, ‘The growth in our community is a growing problem. One meeting participant shared that in her 36 years of living in Normanhurst, she had never experienced a rise in graffiti like this one.’
‘As a community, I know we can come together to tackle this problem head-on’.
Alister Henskens MP echoed the call for community involvement, stating, “The protection of our area’s character requires our collective effort.” This sentiment was reinforced by Hornsby Councillor Sallianne McClelland, who highlighted the distress among residents over the increasing vandalism affecting their homes and neighbourhoods.
“To address this pressing concern,” McClelland announced, “we are establishing a dedicated Graffiti Task Force focusing on removal, education, and community engagement.” She expressed optimism about the support from community groups, service clubs, and individuals eager to contribute to the initiative.
Renowned graffiti removal expert Roger Norman emphasised the critical role of prompt removal in deterring further incidents. He emphasised, “‘Stopping graffiti in our suburbs starts with its rapid removal. However, constant community action is required to effectively remove and discourage future attacks.”
Jo Hutchins, owner of Well Versed Homes and a vocal advocate against graffiti, shared insights from Normanhurst’s business community. ‘Normanhurst Village Shops are such an important gathering place in our community, so it was really sad for many of the shopkeepers to suffer graffiti attacks’.
‘As retailers, we are all doing our best to improve the services, amenities, and presentation for our locals, so we appreciate the initiative to help clean up for the benefit of everyone’.
Looking ahead, the collective effort spearheaded by Julian Leeser MP, Alister Henskens MP, and community stakeholders aims not only to remove existing graffiti but also to educate and engage residents in ongoing prevention efforts. Together, they are committed to fostering a cleaner, more vibrant community for all.