Susanna Freymark
The railway museum building in Dyraaba Street, Casino was vandalised on Thursday, June 4.
Most of the windows were smashed. And it’s not the first time.
Casino Miniature Railway president Jason Crane was driving the mini trains today, Sunday, June 7 despite the damage done to the museum which was closed to the public.
Two weeks ago, two windows were smashed, Mr Crane said.
Casino Glass & Aluminium offered to donate the materials and labour to fix the windows.
“On the same day – later that day – every window was smashed again,” he said.
The building is leased from Richmond Valley Council.
“We’re pleased to report that the council will be covering the cost of repairs and has already arranged for the damaged windows to be boarded up until replacements can be installed,” Mr Crane said.
“The council is also exploring preventative measures to help avoid similar incidents in the future, although this can be challenging given the heritage listed status of the building.”
The building is more than 100 years old.
Mr Crane said they had talked about grills on the windows but the heritage listing complicated this.
The mini rail is entirely run by volunteers.
“We’d like to give a special shout-out to Casino Glass & Aluminium, who generously offered to donate both materials and labour free of charge following the first incident.
“Their kindness and community spirit have been greatly appreciated.
“Moments like these remind us just how fortunate we are to be part of such a caring and supportive community.”
In the past, volunteers have had to repair vandalism to the train tracks too.
Police are investigating the vandalism at the museum.