Condemnation of Vandalism on Captain Cook Statue in Randwick

Press Release – Western Heritage Australia

Date: 25th January 2025

Contact: [email protected]

Western Heritage Australia is deeply disturbed and saddened by the recent act of vandalism against the historic Captain Cook statue located in Randwick, Sydney. Early in the morning of the 24th January 2025, the statue was disgracefully desecrated with red paint and had its hand and nose deliberately damaged – an act which we consider a direct and damaging assault on our nation’s history and heritage.

This is the second time in a year that this statue has been violated and is intolerable that the council did not anticipate that the same could occur in the days leading up to our national day. No doubt the costs of repair will far exceed any preventative measures that could have been implemented, and which the residents will now be required to bear.

This reprehensible act of vandalism, occurring just days before Australia Day, undermines the spirit of unity and respect that our nation strives for. The vandalism not only disrespects the memory of the valiant Captain James Cook, whose explorations played a pivotal role in the history of Australia but also challenges the principles of civil discourse and respect for community monuments.

The desecration of this statue is not an expression of free speech or protest; it is an act of destruction that detracts from the community’s shared history and values. Such acts of vandalism do not contribute to meaningful dialogue or the progress of societal issues. Instead, they serve to divide and diminish our collective cultural landscape.

Western Heritage Australia is appalled by and stands firmly against this act. We call for:

  • Full Restoration: Immediate action to restore the statue to its original condition, preserving its historical and cultural significance.
  • Thorough Investigation: We urge the Police to conduct a comprehensive investigation in order to bring those responsible to justice, ensuring that such acts of vandalism are met with the appropriate legal consequences.
  • Community Education: An initiative to educate the public, including children in school, on the importance of historical monuments and the destructive impact of vandalism on community heritage.
  • A focussed Police Guard: A night Police guard in the week leading up to Australia Day.

The vandalism of the Captain Cook statue in Randwick is an assault on our nation’s cultural fabric. Western Heritage Australia is one of few organisations in Australia committed to promoting, preserving and protecting Australia’s Western culture and heritage. We are committed to the preservation of monuments and historical landmarks, as well as standing firmly against malign and wicked efforts to “decolonise” Australia.

End of Release