Asian Artifacts Vandalized at Museum and Buddhist Temple in Victoria

Described as “senseless and disgraceful” by Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, the vandals were captured on CCTV defacing paintings, statues, and artefacts at a Chinese Museum in Victoria on May 5.

An unnamed man and woman allegedly caused damage amounting to $100,000 (US$66,400) at Bendigo’s Golden Dragon Museum by applying an oily liquid to paintings, parading dragons, and temple artefacts.

The individuals, accompanied by children, fled the scene in a silver Toyota Prado, according to police.

Police also reported that sculptures at the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, a Buddhist monument northwest of Bendigo, were targeted by the same culprits.

Ms. Allan expressed her disapproval of the incident, calling it “disrespectful.”

The Golden Dragon Museum’s chief executive, Hugo Leschen, stated that the museum is highly regarded for its collection of Chinese cultural and heritage materials in Australia.

Stupa Chairman Ian Green estimated the damage caused by the suspects to be in the tens of thousands of dollars.

Images of the alleged offenders have been released by the police, who are seeking information from the public to assist with their investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Golden Dragon Museum

Located in Bendigo, Victoria, the Golden Dragon Museum is a cultural institution dedicated to the history and culture of the Chinese community in Australia.

The museum features a significant collection of Chinese processional regalia and artifacts, including the Sun Loong, the world’s longest imperial dragon.

Great Stupa

The Great Stupa, a Buddhist monument in Bendigo, is modeled after the Great Stupa of Gyantse in Tibet and is set to become the largest stupa in the Western world upon completion.

AAP contributed to this report.