Houdini historic marker destroyed for second time

Star Weekly reports that a roadside monument commemorating Houdini's historic first flight in Australia has been destroyed for a second time this year.

The historic plaque was first established in Diggers Rest with help from the local Lions Club in 1990. The Melton council had the monument rebuilt in March after hearing of the first destruction. Melton Lions Club member and former president Greg James is saddened to see the monument destroyed once again. 

“I was there when it was first put there – it took a lot of effort from the Lions Club,” he said. “It’s a valuable monument for the aviation industry and for Australia. To see it destroyed I was devastated, absolutely devastated.” 

Residents believe the most damage is caused by vandals, while tire marks on the road lead others to believe the damage was caused by "hooning," an Australian term describing a person who deliberately drives a vehicle in a reckless or dangerous manner to provoke a reaction from onlookers. 

Greg James said locals want the monument restored. “We want it back. The local residents and Lions club members are disappointed that it’s like this.”

Related:

• LINK: Houdini monument in ruin
• When Houdini showed Australia that a man can fly
• Houdini soars at new Diggers Rest Pavilion