News Article

Malicious damage to Queen Alexandra statue

The statue of Queen Alexandra in Jack Shiel Gardens has been covered following the vandalism.

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Feb 16, 2024

ON the morning of Friday, February 9, damage to the Queen Alexandra statue, also known as the Princess Alexandra statue, in Jack Shiel Gardens was reported to the police. The statue’s head had been removed in a very terrible act of vandalism. The act was met by widespread disgust in the community. Some wondered whether there was any connection with the felling of the royalty-associated cork oak in Fernshaw in 2022.

Police advised that exhibits have been recovered at the scene of the statue vandalism and that they will be DNA tested and fingerprinted.

If you saw, heard or know anything, please contact the Alexandra police on 5772 1040 or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

The statue has been on permanent loan to Alexandra from the National Gallery since it was unveiled in 1939. It was created by Charles Somers, born in 1825. More on the history of the statue can be found on page 17 of this edition.

Murrindindi Shire Council Mayor Damien Gallagher said, “I am just deeply saddened by the recent act of vandalism that targeted the Queen Alexandra statue in Jack Shiel Gardens, Alexandra.

“This statue commemorates Queen Alexandra as the Princess of Wales. Since 1939, Queen Alexandra has sat serenely and peacefully in Jack Shiel Gardens, a monument to our shire’s important history.

“The vandalism of public property is a crime and cannot be condoned. Our community deserves better, and these types of acts only cause upset in our community.”

Council appreciates the efforts of Victoria Police in investigating this matter and we remain committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all residents.

“I urge anyone in the community who might have information related to this incident to contact Alexandra Police.”

On the same night that the statue was damaged, a vehicle in Alexandra was broken into. This was followed by a similar incident on the following night, November 10. In addition, there was a burglary in…..Continue reading the complete story by subscribing to our weekly edition of the newspapers here.

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