AT least 30 different sections of the predator-proof fence at Mulligans Flat Sanctuary were cut open last night, causing an estimated damage bill of $5000.

According to Territory and Municipal Services, the incident follows a spate of vandalism at nature reserves over the past two weeks, since the reserves were closed for the kangaroo cull.

“This vandalism is very disappointing and has been highly orchestrated since we announced the cull of kangaroos to keep numbers at sustainable levels,” said Daniel Iglesias, director of Parks and Conservation.

“The most disappointing aspect is this deliberate attack on the two-metre high predator proof fence at Mulligans Flat Sanctuary.

“The Sanctuary plays a vital role in ecological research. Its 12 kilometre predator-proof fence encloses a 485 hectare area allowing the reintroduction of locally extinct animals that were once common in the region.

“Only last week a group of Eastern bettongs from Tasmania, which are extinct on the mainland, were reintroduced into the Sanctuary.

“Significant fox and rabbit control has been undertaken in the Sanctuary at considerable cost so it is vital that the security of the fence is maintained.

“This sort of vandalism at Mulligans Flat puts at risk years of planning and research. It would only take one fox to get into the Sanctuary and the results could be catastrophic for the bettong research project.”

As well as the cut fences, more than 20 gate locks in the closed nature reserves have been filled with glue resin material making them unusable.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. People found guilty could face fines of up $5500 and/or six months of imprisonment.