A DANGEROUS act of vandalism has resulted in costly damage to a fire tower near Margaret River and Gracetown.
A vandal allegedly climbed the 20-metre-high Collins lookout tower to wreck its access trapdoor and shoot at one of its windows.
Located near Ellensbrook House, the tower is used for early detection of bushfires and had been completely rebuilt just last year.
Someone has climbed 20 metres up the ladder to damage the trapdoor, which was a dangerous thing to do.
- DPAW officer Deborah Peachey
Department of Parks and Wildlife operations officer Deborah Peachey hoped to find the person responsible.
“The whole pane of glass had to be replaced,” Ms Peachey said.
“The perimeter fence around the tower was damaged and, disturbingly, the access trapdoor into the cabin and its lock was wrecked.
“Someone has climbed 20 metres up the ladder to damage the trapdoor, which was a dangerous thing to do.”
Parks and Wildlife carried out the extensive repairs to ensure the tower is ready for the upcoming bushfire season.
Anyone with information about damage to fire towers is urged to contact the Parks and Wildlife Busselton office on 9752 5555 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
