Gerald Lynch
A former mayor of Brimbank said she “just wants a fair go” heading into the upcoming council election, after her corflutes have been vandalised for the third time in as many weeks.
Candidates have been making themselves known in the community with promotional signs and corflutes being plastered throughout Brimbank.
Former 2019-20 Brimbank mayor Georgina Papafotiou is making another run for council this term.
However, she has faced repeated incidents of vandalism and removal of her campaign signs.
“I am an independent candidate, not affiliated with any political party. Since September 9, my signs have been graffitied, pulled out, and thrown to the ground … This is clearly foul play,“ she said.
“It’s unfair and involves trespassing on private property, damaging campaign materials, and causing distress for property owners.“
She also emphasised the broader impact of such tactics.
“This isn’t just about me, other candidates are being targeted too. This kind of negative campaigning needs to stop.
“We should all be focused on how we can best support our community.“
A spokesperson for Victoria Police said they were aware of the issue.
“Police are investigating reports of damage to corflute signs in Taylors Lakes during September,” the spokesperson said.
“It was reported that several signs relating to a local government election were damaged earlier in the month.
“The investigation remains ongoing.”
The Local Government Inspectorate said any form of signage vandalism was a matter for local police.
Brimbank council regulates where election signage can be located and whether a permit is required for it.
Anyone who witnessed the incidents or has information is urged to contact crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
