A trio of political enthusiasts has taken an unusual approach to election campaigning, using pressure washers to mark their support for an independent Tasmanian candidate.
Surveillance footage shows three individuals targeting Labor MP Julie Collins’ Rosny office on Sunday night.
The trio emerged from a commercial van wearing high-vis vests, with one also wearing what appeared to be a Peter George supporter t-shirt.
Rather than resorting to spray paint or other potentially damaging methods, the group used a stencil and pressure washers to leave messages of support for the independent.
George has distanced himself from the night-time operation, saying it wasn’t part of his official campaign.
“It’s not something that I would have naturally thought of doing. It comes from obviously a great warm heart of enthusiasm for our campaign,” George said.
While not endorsing the tactics used by his supporters, George appeared to take a lenient view of their actions.
“Provided it’s not actually breaking any rules or breaking any laws, I guess it’s acceptable. But as I say, it’s not something that I would encourage,” he said.
The pressure-washed messages did not include an ‘authorisation’, which could put them in breach of the Electoral Act.
Julie Collins, the sitting Labor MP whose office was targeted, has not commented on the video footage.
It is understood ‘reverse graffiti’ has been reported by the Labor MP’s office for investigation and enforcement action by the Clarence City Council.
Peter George last week encouraged “supporters of all campaigns” to not to damage or steal any candidate’s campaign materials.
It comes after he claimed his billboards and signs throughout the Franklin electorate had been vandalised and stolen.
Pulse yesterday revealed the Huon Valley Council were responsible for the unlawful takedown of George’s large billboard at Castle Forbes Bay.
