The city is indeed very fortunate that its early residents had such foresight in creating the attraction.

In the heat of high summer, the site provides a wonderful respite through the shade from majestic old trees and the cooling effect of the beautiful dense garden plantings and sweeps of lawn.

Go through the gates on any glorious autumn day and you’ll be sure to find many people soaking up the tranquillity.

The recent development of the children’s garden has only added to the enjoyment, as have the regular events held at the site – such as concerts and film nights.

Unfortunately though there are always those around who simply don’t care for any of this.

Their only bent is to cause destruction, to leave behind their mark and take what does not belong to them.

While mayor Henk van de Ven says vandalism is not the main issue, it is clear it is too easy for wrongdoers to get into the grounds at night to wreak havoc.

This costs money, wastes time for our already busy outdoors staff at Albury Council and is a kick in the teeth for the whole community.

The council’s decision to spend $300,000 on replacing the old low wire fencing should have a significant impact on preventing such vandalism.

For one, the new high fence will allow the gardens to be locked at night when no one should have any need to enter the grounds.

But another major benefit will be lifting the look of the site, both for residents and for people visiting the city.

For too long, the existing low-slung fence has been the only thing letting down the gardens.

The council has long been aware of this, having flagged the possibility of a new fence a couple of years ago.

People only need to look at just how much the new fencing has lifted the look of the nearby Albury Sportsground to get an appreciation of what is in store.

The council should be congratulated for undertaking what will undoubtedly add a bit of extra polish to this magnificent asset that so many of us dearly love.

We greatly look forward to work starting on the gardens re-fencing project over the coming months.