Cook Shire Council is once again calling on the community to stand together following a significant and deeply disappointing spree of vandalism across multiple public facilities in Cooktown.
The latest damage bill is currently estimated at approximately $15,000 with vital community infrastructure targeted over a short period of time.
Mayor Robyn Holmes said the repeated attacks on public assets are frustrating, costly and unfair to the broader community.
“Every time this happens, it’s our community that pays — either through repair costs, increased maintenance, or facilities being closed while damage is fixed,” Mayor Holmes said.
“These are not Council assets in isolation — they are community assets. They belong to everyone.”
Facilities Targeted
The recent vandalism includes:
- Cooktown Cemetery toilets – waste and water pipes ripped from walls and external cladding smashed.
- Cooktown Dog Park – bin, seating and downpipes damaged.
- Cooktown Historical Society toilet facilities – extensive damage to both male and female toilets, all windows smashed, a wall kicked in, and toilet paper deliberately set alight.
- Lions Park toilets – toilet system smashed onto the floor.
- Wharf toilets – male shower door broken off its hinges.
- Waterfront BBQ area – light fixture broken from pole.
Several facilities have required urgent repairs, while others may face temporary closures until they can be made safe.
Mayor Holmes said beyond the financial impact, vandalism undermines community pride and the experience of residents and visitors alike.
“We work hard to maintain clean, safe and accessible public spaces. When facilities are damaged like this, it affects families, community groups, visitors and volunteers who rely on them,” she said. “It also diverts limited Council resources away from important projects and essential services.”
Help Police hold offenders accountable
Queensland Police are investigating the incidents.
Council is urging anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour or has information that could assist police to come forward — even if the information seems minor.
Reports can be made anonymously via Policelink either by calling 131 444, or by reporting online at the link below:
“If you saw something, heard something, or know something — please say something,” Mayor Holmes said.
“Anonymous reports make a difference. Holding offenders accountable is the only way we break this cycle and stop these costs being passed back onto our community.”
Cook Shire Council thanks the many residents who continue to report vandalism promptly and help protect local facilities.
