Updated: $100,000 worth of statues, paintings, stonework and temple artifacts at the Golden Dragon Museum and the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion were damaged by two vandals.
The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion and the Golden Dragon Museum are working with Victoria Police following acts of vandalism that occurred at both cultural attractions earlier this month.
In a statement, the Greater Bendigo Council says that on May 5th between 1.30pm and 2pm, a man, woman and two, young female children visited the Dai Gum San precinct, where the woman appeared to discreetly flick a light oily substance from a water bottle. Then at about 3pm, the same group visited the Great Stupa, where the woman again flicked contents from a water bottle onto religious objects.
Approximately a dozen statues, both inside and outside the Stupa, have been damaged. Statues, stonework, temple artifacts, artwork, and parading dragons Sun Loong and Loong were allegedly targeted.
Reporter David Armstrong has more…
CCTV footage of both sites shows the group was deliberate in its approach. The vandalism was reported separately to Victoria Police last week.
Investigators believe the duo used a liquid to cause damage to multiple statues and paintings, worth around $100,000 and left the scene in a silver Toyota Prado.
Investigators have released images of two people they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.
Golden Dragon Museum General Manager, Hugo Leschen, says “an attack of this nature, on culturally sensitive objects that have high heritage significance, is extremely serious and hugely upsetting and disappointing for our staff, the local Chinese community and everyone who takes pride in Bendigo’s unique history.”
“Loong is listed with Heritage Victoria, which has been advised of the vandalism. Fortunately, the damage to him is minor, and limited to a tiny drop of fluid behind the lip and mouth, and some residue on a glossy surface that we hope can be removed with the appropriate treatment.
“However, within the mouth of Sun Loong, the oily liquid has been absorbed and seeped across the open mouth of the dragon, damaging the silk and paper that he is made of.
“It is hoped no permanent damage has been caused but the liquid is both clear and does not smell, so it is difficult to know at this stage what it is.”
Great Stupa Chairman, Ian Green, says there is a long list of damage to treasured pieces.
“The objects at the Stupa are considered sacred and many have been entrusted to the Great Stupa by various faith-based communities to help preserve and celebrate their traditions, providing a space for worship and fellowship,” Green says.
“We expect at least a dozen statues have been targeted, both inside and outside the Great Stupa, including sculptures that we had just finished painting. Due to the nature of the liquid, we are seeing paint lifting on our Saint Francis of Assisi statue and the liquid has also permanently stained a granite wall.
“We estimate the repair bill will run into the tens of thousands of dollars and we will work to repair what we can.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
