September 7, 2026
This Article was first published in The Area News on 4 September. Click here to read the full article.
Griffith City Council estimates repair costs will exceed $100,000 following recent vandalism at Dave Taylor Park and the Griffith Regional Airport.
A council spokesperson said damage across the sites included broken bins, playground equipment, public toilets, barbecue amenities, gardens, electrical wiring and airport fencing – installed recently to improve security and protect assets.
The South Griffith Community Hub is owned and managed by Argyle Housing, which the council says is responsible for all maintenance and repairs.
“Council continues to work through damage assessments and restoration works to ensure affected community assets are repaired and returned to service as quickly as possible,” the spokesperson said.
“The council is currently exploring costs associated with additional CCTV coverage at Dave Taylor Park.
“Griffith Regional Airport already has CCTV in some areas and further security enhancements will be considered as part of ongoing reviews.”

Recent damage done to fencing at the Griffith Regional Airport.
The council noted a broader increase in vandalism around the city and said it was working closely with NSW Police.
The airport damage follows extensive vandalism to the South Griffith Community Hub, which has been repeatedly targeted since the building was completed in 2024.
Argyle Housing chief executive Carolyn Doherty said it was deeply disappointing to see the damage to the new Ngumbaaydyil Community Hub.
“This is a space that has been designed with the community for the community,” she said.
“Its purpose is to bring people together, provide access to services and create opportunities for families, children, and young people across the region.
“Unfortunately repeated acts of vandalism – including damage to windows, fencing, play equipment and other facilities – have meant that the opening of the hub has been delayed.
“Every time something is damaged it takes time and resources to repair it and that ultimately means the community has to wait longer to use a facility that has been years in the making,” Ms Doherty said.

(L to R) Rex Campbell (Proud Wiradjuri and Ngarrindjeri man) presents his artwork “Loss and Beginnings” to Argyle Housing to be hung in the entrance to Ngumbaaydyil Community Hub with Argyle Housing employees – Olivia Romano and Scott Dunstan. Pictures supplied
She found the situation particularly heartbreaking given how close Argyle Housing was to opening its doors.
The organisation still plans to welcome families into the Ngumbaaydyil hub later this year, to deliver a range of programs and activities in partnership with local organisations and service providers.
The hub will provide opportunities for community connection, learning, recreation and support through programs designed to respond to the needs and interests of residents.
Argyle Housing has installed CCTV cameras at the hub and urges residents to report suspicious behaviour to police.
“This isn’t simply damage to a building,” Ms Doherty said.
“Every act of vandalism delays the opportunity for children to play, young people to participate in activities, families to connect and local services to support the community.
“We are incredibly proud of what Ngumbaaydyil represents and remain absolutely committed to seeing it become a vibrant and welcoming part of the Griffin Green precinct.”

Argyle Housing Employee Jade working in the Community Garden at Ngumbaaydyil Community Hub. Pictures supplied
Police have increased patrols around key council property and community buildings.
District Inspector Glenn Smith asked residents to be vigilant about people acting suspiciously especially after dark and people damaging property by force or with markers and spray cans.
Reports can be made via the community portal.
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