Attack on grader disappoints

An act of vandalism on a Downer-owned grader in the past few days has left Tairawhiti Roads journey manager Helen Harris gobsmacked.

She said the attack on the grader, lent to contractor Fulton Hogan to assist in cleaning up the State Highway north of Ormond after yesterday’s flooding, was extremely disappointing.

“The grader was broken into at the Ormond Weigh Bridge. It had been parked there since Friday ready to respond to any event issues.

“Water got into the diesel tanks after they were punctured and drained of fuel. The battery box was broken into and batteries taken. A crow bar was used to try to gain entry to the cab. The vandals were unsuccessful but bent the bottom of the door.”

The cost of the damage is estimated to be between $8000 and $10,000. The grader will be out of action for at least a week.

“This is disappointing in view of the rain forecast for later this week.”

ENDS

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