Vandals attack seven schools

Hobart,Tasmania,Australia

VANDALS have attacked seven Launceston primary schools, forcing the Education Department to step up school security.

The weekend damage to Invermay, Youngtown, Waverley, Rocherlea, Summerdale, Mowbray Heights and Punchbowl Primary Schools included extensive graffiti, broken windows and three arson attempts. Education Minister Paula Wriedt said police were investigating all incidents and additional security was put in place yesterday.

"In the meantime, I would like to reassure students, parents and school communities that additional security strategies are in place and will remain so until further notice," Ms Wriedt said. "This sort of cowardly attack on primary schools is totally senseless and is devastating for everyone involved in the schools.

"Schools are a valuable community asset representing a cash investment of millions of dollars, but more importantly, they are an investment for the future of our children."

Ms Wriedt urged any one with information about the attacks to come forward.

"The Department of Education is working closely with Tasmania Police in a bid to track down the offender or offenders," she said.

Anyone with information can contact Crimestoppers on 1800 005 555 or Detective Steve Jordan on 6336 3701.