11 October, 2025
urgent-2-000-plant-theft-hits-elizabeth-park-australia

UPDATE: A shocking theft has devastated the Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens in Maryborough, Australia, with thieves making off with 29 flowering rose plants valued at over $2,000. The incident occurred on October 7, prompting urgent calls from the Fraser Coast Regional Council for residents to help “nip the problem in the bud.”

Council officials expressed their outrage over this “deeply disappointing” act, marking a troubling trend of plant thefts sweeping across the nation. The recent theft comes just two years after over 100 roses were stolen from the same garden, raising alarms about the ongoing vulnerability of public green spaces.

“The loss of roses is not just a loss of plants – it’s a loss for the whole community,” a council spokesperson said, highlighting that the rose gardens have been a cherished part of the city for more than a century. “These vibrant displays attract residents and visitors alike, and their theft is incredibly frustrating.”

This incident is part of a broader wave of plant thefts impacting communities across Australia. Residents in various regions are taking creative measures to combat the issue. One Perth resident attached a note to a tree outside their home, pleading with thieves to stop their actions.

Additionally, authorities are stepping up their efforts. In October, the NSW National Parks warned that severe penalties await anyone caught removing plants from public parks, following reports of missing waratah plants from a national park on the Central Coast. Just over a year ago, a staggering 900 rare orchids were stolen from the Kings Park Botanic Garden in Perth, further underscoring the urgency of the situation.

As the council prepares to restore the Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens, they estimate it will cost over $2,000 to rehabilitate the garden beds and replace the stolen plants. The community is urged to report any information regarding the thefts, as local councils and residents continue to grapple with this alarming crime trend.

Residents are reminded that the beauty of their parks and gardens relies on collective responsibility and vigilance. Anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact the Fraser Coast Regional Council immediately.

This situation is developing rapidly, and the council’s appeal reflects a growing frustration among communities determined to protect their beloved public spaces. The urgency of resolving these thefts is clear, as the thefts occur just as flowers bloom and bring joy to the area.

Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.