Vandals Target Stobie Poles in Adelaide's North
Vandals are deliberately cutting through electricity poles in Adelaide's north, creating dangerous situations that could result in electrocution or severe burns, according to SA Power Networks. The utility has reported four incidents in the past five weeks where stobie poles—made of cement and steel and weighing over one tonne—were cut at the base. Three of these poles collapsed, and in the most serious case, live electrical wires were left lying in a public area.
Live Wires Left in Public Area
In the worst incident, live powerlines fell to the ground in a location accessible to the public, posing an immediate electrocution risk. SA Power Networks warned that anyone coming into contact with the wires could suffer severe burns or death. Another pole was found partially cut and unstable near a popular walking and mountain-bike track in Cobbler Creek Recreation Park, an area frequently used by children. The utility stated that a strong gust of wind could have brought the pole down across the track, prompting the park's closure for several days while crews made the site safe.
High-Voltage Equipment Stripped at Concordia
A separate incident on Harris Road at Concordia saw a pole-top transformer brought down and stripped, leaving high-voltage equipment on the ground. SA Power Networks External Affairs Manager Cecilia Schutz described the behaviour as “reckless and dangerous”, noting that the vandals risk their own lives and endanger the public. “These attacks are particularly alarming because these criminals are not just endangering their own lives, they’re putting innocent members of the community at risk,” she said.
Specialised Equipment Suspected
Schutz said cutting through steel-and-concrete Stobie poles requires “significant planned effort”, and investigators believe the offenders may have used specialised equipment. The utility is urging anyone who witnessed suspicious activity near the damaged poles, or who captured dashcam footage at Concordia or around Cobbler Creek, to contact police. SA Power Networks is also warning the public to stay well clear of any fallen or damaged powerlines.
Public Urged to Stay 10 Metres Away
Anyone who sees fallen, low-hanging or damaged powerlines, or a leaning or damaged pole, should stay at least 10 metres away and immediately call SA Power Networks on 13 13 66. The utility emphasised that the public should never approach or attempt to move fallen wires, as they may still be live.
