A group of alleged vandals has been caught on camera attempting to deface a statue of Captain James Cook and a historic cottage built by his father.
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"Anti-cook comments" and graffiti were sprayed on the cottage in Melbourne's Fitzroy Gardens in the early hours of February 25, Victoria Police said.
CCTV footage released by police showed three figures attempting to remove the statue's head with what appeared to be an angle grinder.
"It is believed two offenders attended the cottage in Fitzroy Gardens and spray painted the hut about 2am," police said.
It comes just weeks after the statue was replaced, following vandalism from the year earlier, with repairs costing $13,000.
"Our security team observed Cooks' Cottage and the Captain Cook statue being damaged early on Tuesday morning and implemented measures that prompted offenders to leave the scene," Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece said.
"While there are a range of views on statues and memorials, each time a monument is damaged, it's ultimately the ratepayer footing the bill and that is unacceptable."
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan hit out at the "senseless vandalism", saying it "has no place".
"It advances no cause," the premier said on February 25.
"We'll work with council authorities around any restoration of repair work that needs to be undertaken."
Anyone with information or dashcam vision is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or log onto www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Anna Houlahan
Anna Houlahan is a journalist for the Courier, dedicated to uncovering the stories that shape the city. Reach out with news or updates to anna.houlahan@austcommunitymedia.com.au
