A Mount Gambier court has sentenced 20-year-old Amelia Vanderhorst for vandalizing a prominent public artwork while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The incident occurred in September when Vanderhorst adhered plastic googly eyes to the recently installed sculpture known as ‘Cast in Blue,’ locally referred to as the Blue Blob.
Appearing before magistrates on Tuesday, Vanderhorst pleaded guilty to a graffiti charge that was reduced from initial property damage allegations through prosecutorial negotiations. Magistrate Court officials ordered her to compensate A$2,000 (US$1,394) to the City of Mount Gambier and perform 60 hours of community service.
Defense attorney Michael Hill explained that his client had consumed three liters of vodka and MDMA before committing the act of vandalism. In a statement to media, Hill noted Vanderhorst has since taken substantial steps toward rehabilitation, including reducing substance use and stabilizing her personal circumstances. The defendant reportedly abandoned a crowdfunding effort for legal fees and returned all contributions, demonstrating accountability for her actions.
The controversial sculpture, costing taxpayers A$136,000, was unveiled in July as a representation of a mythical megafauna inspired by ancient marsupial ant-eaters found in local caves. Mayor Lynette Martin condemned the vandalism as “willful damage to a valued public artwork,” noting that removal of the adhesive eyes would require expensive restoration due to potential surface damage.
The sculpture’s installation initially sparked community debate regarding its abstract design and substantial cost, with residents expressing polarized opinions about the artistic value of the blue, amorphous structure.