Gungahlin Lakes Golf Course Implements Security Measures Against E-Scooter Vandals
Gungahlin Lakes Golf Course is collaborating with local police to address a persistent problem of hoons on electric scooters and motorbikes causing damage to its greens. The issue, which has escalated in recent months, is particularly prevalent during school holiday periods.
Rising Incidents of Vandalism
There have been multiple reports of vandals riding electric scooters and electric motorbikes across the course's delicate greens, with the most recent incident occurring on a Wednesday. The problem is not new, having been documented for several months, but it appears to be intensifying.
Anthony Pickrell, the chief financial officer of the Ainslie Group, which manages the course, highlighted the challenges in preventing such incidents. "Given the public surrounds, it's a bit hard to prevent people from coming onto the golf course without permission," he explained. "We're engaging with police on what we can do."
Enhanced Security and Police Cooperation
In response, the course is implementing enhanced security measures, including the installation of surveillance cameras. These cameras are expected to provide live reports, enabling quicker identification of perpetrators and more effective coordination with law enforcement.
Pickrell emphasised the limitations of police action without clear evidence: "Unless we can identify what was done and who did it, the police can't do much. We can make a report, show them photos, but until they have a name or a direction to run, I don't think there's much they can do."
A Growing Trend with Electric Vehicles
The emergence of electric scooters and motorbikes has contributed to the regularity of these incidents. Pickrell noted that the problem is becoming more common, with riders becoming increasingly brazen. For instance, on a recent Sunday afternoon, individuals were seen riding on the practice green near the clubhouse.
Most damage occurs at night, with a significant incident reported in November from which the grass is still recovering. "It's a regular thing that happens, just becoming more common with the emergence of electric scooters and electric motorbikes," Pickrell stated.
Broader Context and Member Concerns
This issue is not isolated to Gungahlin. Similar problems have been reported elsewhere, such as e-bike gangs causing disturbances at Long Reef Golf Course in Sydney and masked bandits on dirt bikes damaging greens in Goulburn last March.
Gungahlin members have expressed their frustration on social media, prompting Pickrell to urge them not to take matters into their own hands. "They need to just refer it to us and allow us to refer it to the police," he advised. "The last thing we want is members to be involved in something that's bigger than it needs to be."
He plans to send a notice to members, encouraging them to report incidents directly to course management for proper handling by authorities.
Looking Ahead
As the course works to recover from past damages and prevent future occurrences, the focus remains on improving security infrastructure and fostering community cooperation. The hope is that these measures will deter vandals and protect the integrity of the golf course for all members and visitors.
