Vandalism Act Hits Blur Bob Statue
A 19-year-old woman, Amelia Vanderhorst, has been accused of showing reckless indifference after defacing one of Australia’s most recognizable public artworks with large googly eyes. The incident took place in Mount Gambier, South Australia, where Vanderhorst placed the plastic stickers on the Cast in Blue sculpture — affectionately known to locals as “Blue Bob.”
According to local news reports, CCTV footage captured Vanderhorst attaching the eyes to the sculpture. When the stickers were removed, they caused paint damage, leading to an estimated A$2,500 repair bill.
Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin condemned the act, calling it “inappropriate and disrespectful.” She stated that the council would seek to recover the repair costs, emphasizing that this was “not harmless fun” but rather “wilful damage.”
“There are many members of our community who’ve embraced Cast in Blue,” Martin said. “Rectifying the damage will result in significant expenses.”
Court Hearing and Public Reaction
During a court hearing, Vanderhorst told the magistrate she was unwell and “really high on pain medication.” She did not enter a plea and was advised to obtain legal representation before her next court appearance in December, according to ABC News.
The Cast in Blue sculpture, valued at A$136,000, was unveiled in July as a mythical representation of ancient Australian megafauna found in caves across South East Australia. Despite its artistic intent, the piece initially received mixed public reactions, partly due to its cost amid rising local council rates.
Notably, this was not the first time the sculpture faced vandalism. Just two weeks after installation, parts of its paint were deliberately damaged, though no charges were laid following that incident.
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