VANDALS have targeted the Rutherglen Bowling Club in broad daylight and left a trail of damage that has forced the cancellation of competition today.
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Club members were left to clean up the venue yesterday after several unknown people targeted the Murray Street property.
One of the bowling greens was damaged by the vandals who dug large holes in the surface, rendering it unable to be used for play today.
Pegs used to mark the edge of the rinks were broken off and markers were thrown around the green.
Greenkeeper John Crossman — pictured with the damage — is frustrated by the attack, which also included graffiti and the theft of small items.
“It’s disgusting,” he said.
“We’re disappointed because we put a lot of work into it, and it’s all volunteer work. To come down and see this is annoying.”
Mr Crossman said it was lucky today’s games were only an interclub event, rather than a major competition.
“We’ve been targeted before but not to this extent,” he said.
Police believe several people would have been involved.
The damage was discovered about 2pm.
“They would have had to have been here for a while to do the damage they’ve done,” Leading Senior Constable Steve Ireland said.
“It happened between 10.30am and 2pm.
“They created all sorts of damage and the green is basically unusable now.
“It’s disgusting behaviour.”
“Why do something like this, especially in your home town?
“It’s going to be a major inconvenience to the club.”
The site is not covered by security cameras, but Leading Senior Constable Ireland said the club was located in a reasonably built-up area.
“There is a park next door to the bowling club and on the other side is a golf club,” he said.
“The caravan park is a stone’s throw away and it’s pretty much in a residential area.
“If anyone saw anything or knows anything, we would love to hear from them.
“We’re disgusted by what occurred.”
Call Rutherglen police on (02) 6032 9612.