By Peter Douglas
A mystery group with an interest in orienteering has “defiled” a popular walking trail in the Birdsland bushland area of Belgrave South.
Although a clean-up operation has now begun, frustrations exist within the community after hundreds of yellow arrows were spray-painted throughout the scenic landscape.
This included on trees, rocks and fences.
The brightly coloured arrows have proved difficult to remove, with attempts made to restore the natural setting through painting over the arrows with grey paint.
Long-time walker in the area, and nearby resident, Glenda Wise, said there was no need for such senseless destruction.
“This is of concern to huge numbers of people who enjoy the natural bush solitude – only to have had it marred by someone with no care for the mess they’ve left behind,” she said.
“There is one old tree I’ve been watching … which I have photographed many times over the years, of its degradation in various lights … and it has been ruined with yellow painted arrows.
“Whoever is responsible should be made to go back and remove it.”
Ms Wise said permits should be required for orienteering groups to use the space.
She said tags, or simply garden stakes, would be a better alternative, if people wanted to use the area for orienteering.
The Birdsland area is a bushland reserve with a long and rich history.
The land was once a farming property.
The Bird family donated the land to the public to try to preserve the area and protect it from urban development.
At the time of print, ‘The Mail’ believes Melbourne Water is responsible for management of the land.
A media request has been sent to Melbourne Water to uncover if any action will be taken, though no response had been received at deadline.
