Vandalism shuts down park, public toilets

Destructive vandalism is spreading throughout Katanning, forcing the Shire to close the town's upgraded public facilities just days after renovations were completed.

The Town Square, Lions Park and Town Hall public toilets have been consistently damaged.

The property damage, including graffiti and arson, has cost the Shire a further $2500 in additional cleaning and maintenance, over just three weeks.

Shire president Alan McFarland said at one stage every public toilet in town was closed because of the vandalism, which was disappointing.

"There is that added expectation to have clean toilets wherever you go, with these added maintenance costs ratepayers will end up paying for it," he said.

"If the community know of anything happening they need to let us know and if they see anything happening they need to phone the police."

The Shire fears the destructive behaviour is spreading throughout town, with reports of arson coming in, including letterboxes set alight.

Jodi Menghini had her letterbox targeted last week and said the vandalism was dangerous and needed to stop.

"I have a four-year-old who loves checking the mail; imagine if he was injured," she said.

"It's disappointing and I am thankful it was only junk mail and not important documents, or letters; the community needs to look out for each other and report something when they see it."

Destroying property by fire is a criminal offence, with a penalty of up 25 years imprisonment.

Rewards of up to $50,000 are offered for information leading to the conviction of any person destroying or damaging property and residents are urged to contact police and report any suspicious activity.