Jason Peter Munda: Karratha man fined $1000 for damaging Aboriginal statues at Mt Welcome Lookout in Roebourne

Jonathon NolanPilbara News
Camera IconDamage to the statues on Mt Welcome. Credit: Roebourne Police

A man has been fined for damaging Statues at the Mt Welcome lookout in Roebourne.

Jason Peter Munda appeared in Karratha Magistrates court via video link from Roebourne Regional Prison — where he pled guilty.

Munda — who is an elder — said he felt the statues were causing “angst” in his community.

Camera IconDamage to the statues on Mt Welcome. Credit: Roebourne Police

The statues at the lookout spot are representative of the Ngarluma, Yindjibarndi and Mardudhunera Aboriginal people.

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However, when asked if he consulted other community members about removing the statues, Munda said “no”.

Camera IconA statue was torn down on Mt Welcome. Credit: City of Karratha

“Those statues in Karratha should come down too,” Munda said.

The prosecution said Munda drove to the top of Mt Welcome, attached a chain around the statues and to his car, before uprooting them as he drove away.

The City of Karratha said the damage bill was around $4600.

In sentencing, Magistrate Cillian Stockdale imposed a $1000 fine — he was also fined $200 for an unrelated stealing offence.

Camera IconDamage to the statues on Mt Welcome. Credit: Roebourne Police

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