A garden meant to honour the fallen has been left wounded itself, after thieves targeted the Riverton RSL’s memorial garden not once, but three times in April.
The thefts, which occurred over a couple of weeks starting in early April, left members of the RSL heartbroken.
More than 30 flowering plants were stolen- plants that one of the veterans had grown from seed over several months, specifically for the ANZAC Day Dawn Service.
A Peace Rose, planted two years ago in memory of the sub-branch’s last World War II veteran, was also taken.
“It’s been extremely traumatic for our veterans and members,” RSL Riverton Sub-branch President John Connell said.
“To think someone would desecrate a cenotaph garden is, without doubt, a criminal offence. It shows no morals, no regard or conscience for the hundreds of thousands who made the supreme sacrifice for our freedom.”
Mr Connell said this was not the first time such an incident had happened at the garden, and although police were not notified, the City of Canning quickly stepped in.
In the lead-up to ANZAC Day, the City’s Community Safety Service carried out extra patrols between April 11 and April 26 in an effort to deter any further damage.
Mayor Patrick Hall said the City shared the community’s concern.
“This is a place of deep significance,” he said.
“We’re committed to supporting the Riverton RSL and helping preserve the dignity and respect these sites deserve. This is a time to stand together as a community and show that we will not tolerate this kind of behaviour.”
Since the rangers started patrolling, there have been no further incidents. But the emotional toll remains.
Local resident Simon S. said he first hoped it was just a random act. “But then it happened again. It feels targeted. That makes me really sad,” he said. “A memorial space is a symbol of respect and remembrance…. a place to stop, pause and find peace.”
Despite the setback, the community rallied. When Mr Connell posted about the thefts on Facebook, he was flooded with support. “Many offered to replace the plants,” he said. “There were hundreds of offers to assist.”
Thanks to a generous donation from Bunnings Riverton, the garden was replanted in time for the Dawn Service.
“They’ve been one of our strongest supporters,” Mr Connell said.
But moving forward, more protection is needed. “We are now looking at the cost of installing security cameras to cover the area,” Mr Connell said. “It will need some serious fund raising or a sponsor who may be interested in installing them.”
The City of Canning has encouraged anyone who witnesses suspicious activity to report it through their 24/7 hotline on 1300 422 664. Their recently launched ‘See It, Report It’ campaign’s goal is to raise awareness of how residents can play a role in protecting local spaces.
For the RSL members and volunteers who tend the garden, it’s not just about flowers, it’s about honour, remembrance, and community. And while the damage hurt, the support from locals has shown something even stronger…. solidarity.
