Community left devestated from the theft of a late artist's $95,000 statue

The Mt Pleasant community awoke on a cold Friday morning to find the sculpture stolen.

Only tire tracks and an empty pedestal with jutting screws where the sculpture once stood were left behind.

The theft was posted onto their community Facebook, where some locals expressed their frustration.

"Please if you were driving past and saw people and car/s around the sculpture get in touch today. Any information would be valuable."

"Noooooo! What is wrong with these people. Why can't they leave this treasure alone for the whole community to enjoy?"

"That is so sad ! Who would do such a thing!!"

The sculpture was placed at the Community Centre in memoriam of local artist Llew Summers for the fourth anniversary of his death in 2023.

"Flight", as he called the piece, had a 2 meter wingspan, paying homage to an albatross. 

He was deeply respected by the local community, who hope to see the sculpture brought back as soon as possible.

Metronews has reached out to the Mt Pleasant Community Centre for more information.