Blue Mountains residents are being encouraged to “Love Where We Live” by getting involved in Graffiti Removal Day on Sunday, October 21.
Graffiti Removal Day is an annual state-wide volunteer day supported by the NSW government.
The day draws attention to the fight against graffiti vandalism, and encourages the removal and prevention of graffiti in local communities.
Graffiti vandalism costs our community millions each year. This is money that could be invested into improving our roads, schools and hospitals.
According to The Department of Justice, in NSW residential dwellings are the largest target for graffiti vandals, closely followed by public transport and commercial properties.
“Graffiti Removal Day is a day where locals come together to join in the fight against graffiti, restore community pride, and to show we can all Love Where We Live,” said Graffiti Removal Day chairman, Bob Aitken.
“Due to the outstanding efforts of Graffiti Removal teams throughout the Blue Mountains – led by Greg Birtles – the area between Glenbrook and Katoomba is relatively graffiti free,” he said.
“However, these teams work very hard to maintain that status and really epitomise our motto – Love where you live!
“Blue Mountains residents are encouraged to maintain their vigilance and report new graffiti sites are they appear.
“Rotary clubs throughout NSW are committed to combating graffiti alongside the NSW government, Graffiti Removal Australia and sponsors such as Dulux, and Selleys,” said Mr Aitken.
“Last year, across NSW, more than 1800 volunteers removed 30,050m2 of graffiti from nearly 500 sites, and gained the support of close to 70 local councils, saving our community $2.1 million in clean-up costs.
“This year, become a local hero in the fight against graffiti by volunteering on the day or nominating a clean-up site at www.graffitiremovalday.org.au.
“Those who cannot make it on the day can still show their support by promoting the day on social media using the hashtags #GRD18 and #LoveWhereWeLive.”
