TasNetworks anger at vandal attack

March 13, 2024

Senseless vandals who risked electrocution have caused $300,000 damage to TasNetworks infrastructure in Scottsdale and will cause 2000 customers to lose power while the damage is fixed.

Vandals recently severely damaged an Optical Ground Wire (OPGW) on a transmission pole. 

It’s believed they tried to pull off part of the pole using a towline attached from a vehicle, damaging the OPGW in the process. 

TasNetworks’ Principal Field Engineer, James Goodger, said the vandalism was a dangerous and reckless act. 

“These vandals were risking deadly electrocution if the wire had been dislodged instead of just damaged. We have safety protections in place, but they may not have saved someone who deliberately ripped a live cable from a pole,” Mr Goodger said. 

“Unfortunately, to complete those repairs, about 2,000 local customers will experience a power outage for a period of up to 10 hours, on or around March 25.

“We’ve written to all affected customers explaining the situation, and will also send standard SMS notifications about the exact repair date. 

“We appreciate customers’ support and understanding. We share their frustration at this senseless vandalism.”

TasNetworks said the number of customers affected by the repair
outage could’ve topped 3,500, but the business will employ network switching and provide some generators at its
own expense to ensure essential services, including local schools, can retain power. 

The vandalism incident has been reported to police. 

TasNetworks encourages anyone with information to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.