As warmer weather approaches Melbourne, Aura Vale Lake in Menzies Creek has seen an increase in visitors, with many raising concerns about the poor condition of the lake’s public toilets.
The toilet facilities were closed for several months last year and reopened on AFL Grand Final Day, Friday 27 September, following repairs to a failed water system.
Since reopening, visitor numbers around the lake have steadily increased, particularly in recent weeks as temperatures have risen.
However, Star Mail has received several calls from visitors about the extremely poor state of the toilets, citing issues with cleanliness and general maintenance.
Reports include one toilet cubicle having no door at all, while two others do not have functioning locks, forcing users to hold the doors closed while the facilities are in use, the report also included that only one of the three water taps is operational, with excessively high water pressure making it difficult to use.
Visitors said the condition of the toilets does not reflect the growing number of people using the lake for recreation and exercise during the warmer months.
Community members are calling for improved maintenance and more regular cleaning to ensure the facilities are safe and suitable for public use.
Parks Victoria Ranger team leader, Mick van de Vreede said vandalism and theft were responsible for the current condition of the toilet block.
“The Aura Vale toilet block has been damaged by vandalism and theft, this kind of senseless behaviour is very disappointing given the toilet block only reopened in September,” Mr van de Vreede said.
“We have installed new locks and will replace the broken door in the next few weeks. Vandalism and theft from parks like this is incredibly disrespectful to the community – it ruins people’s experience and costs us a considerable amount of time and resources to repair.”
