Coordinated by Rotarian Cliff Cowell, they were among more than 1600 volunteers who removed graffiti from more than 330 sites across NSW ranging from Broken Hill in the west to Bondi in the east.

The work was part of Graffiti Removal Day 2014, which has been described as an outstanding success. 

Rotarians Peter Thompson, John Short, Peter Woods and David Hughes worked  with Cliff to remove graffiti from the walls of 141 on Main and Discount Dave’s in Church Street, the western wall of the Telstra Telephone Exchange, and the long green fence in Hartigan Avenue.

“I am particularly grateful to our members who gave up their Sunday to remove graffiti from other people’s property,” Cliff said.

“Most volunteers had no experience in graffiti removal but by the end of the day, they had learnt new skills, and done something positive for our community. 

“This shows a real sense of community spirit.

“Graffiti Removal Day grows bigger each year, and we are looking forward to having more volunteers next year.” 

Cliff praised the major supporters of the special day.

“Locally we were very well supported by Parkes Shire Council and especially Parkes Paint and Heating who couldn’t do enough to help us.

“Graffiti Removal Day is only part of the solution in the fight against graffiti. 

“While the Day was a success in removing graffiti, it is also important to remember it is only one day of the year - the fight against graffiti should take place all year round.

“To stop graffiti vandalism we need members of the community to report it as soon as it appears by calling the Graffiti Hotline 1800 707 125, so it can be quickly removed to prevent these vandals from getting any kind of exposure,” Cliff concluded.

For people interested in helping to remove graffiti on an ongoing basis Rotary and the NSW Government have several volunteer programs which people can become involved in. 

For further information about these programs please call 1300 665310.