Continuous vandalism has led Forests NSW to relocate toilets facilities from two picnic areas in the Central West to Macquarie Woods in Vittoria State Forest, half way between Orange and Bathurst.

Forests NSW regional manager, Gavin Jeffries, said the toilets had been moved from Bungelboori picnic area in Newnes State Forest, near Lithgow, and Four Mile Creek picnic area in Canobolas State Forest, west of Orange

"For a number of years the toilet facilities have been subjected to acts of vandalism, ranging from toilet bowls being smashed to buildings being shot at or attacked with axes.

"To avoid further acts of vandalism, Forests NSW reinstalled the toilets facilities at Macquarie Woods, where it has a full-time ranger,’ he said.

Mr Jeffries said the toilet facilities would be greatly appreciated by visitors to Macquarie Woods, as the rest area was very popular with campers and day visitors.

Forests NSW is appealing to forest visitors to report vandals to its Bathurst regional office on (02) 6331 2044 or to the police.

Forests NSW has also been undertaking extensive plantings of eucalypts at Macquarie Woods, as part of a new tree planting and beautification program for the rest area.

Approximately 800 mainly native eucalypts have been planted by Department of Corrective Services’ crews under contract to Forests NSW.

"Not only will the trees add to the beauty of the area, they will be yet another feature of Macquarie Woods well established cross country running course," Mr Jeffries  said.

Photo available from sarahc@sf.nsw.gov.au

Further reading

Forests recreation

Media contact: Sarah Chester on (02) 6036 2110 or 0417 207 669