MUNDARING Police are investigating the theft of two long-standing bronze statues from the Mundaring Community Sculpture Park, taken late last month.

Two of the five figures from the Tourists in Mundaring installation were taken in the early hours of Friday, August 28 after offenders dug out the cemented footings.

Police believe the heavy artworks were dragged towards Phillips Street before being loaded into a waiting vehicle.

Created by Stoneville sculptor Stuart Elliot and commissioned in 1988 as part of the Mundaring Art Centre’s bicentennial project, the statues have stood in the park for nearly 40 years.

Shire President Paige McNeil expressed the deep impact of the loss amongst the Mundaring community.

“These sculptures hold a special place in the hearts of our community and have been enjoyed by generations of local families,” she said.

“Their theft has been deeply upsetting, particularly to children who have grown up with them.

“It is difficult to understand why anyone would take something that brings so much joy and connection to our community,” she said.

Designed to reflect the people who come to appreciate the region, the artwork has long served as a symbol of the natural pull and community spirit of the area.

Ms McNeil said the outpouring of public emotion following the incident only highlighted how deeply embedded the statues were in the daily lives of residents.

“The sculptures have become an iconic part of the Sculpture Park experience and are representative of the visitors who come to enjoy the natural beauty of the park and the Perth Hills,” she said.

“Since sharing the news of their disappearance, we have received an overwhelming response from the community, with residents expressing their sadness and frustration while sharing memories and stories about the role the sculptures played in their lives.

Local authorities are urging anyone who was in the area during the early morning hours of August 28 and noticed suspicious activity to come forward.

Information can be provided directly to Mundaring Police Station or reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online.