Vandals smash council’s Christmas decorations with crowbar

November 3, 2026 — 4:57pmChristmas decorations bound for Fortitude Valley’s pedestrian malls have been damaged during a break-in at a Brisbane City Council storage shed.A walk-through Santa and gingerbread chair were damaged in the break-in at Tingalpa, with images showing a crowbar was used.Replacements are estimated to cost more than $100,000.“Council was made aware late last week that a storage shed holding the Valley Mall’s Christmas decorations had been broken into,” a council spokesperson said.“Those responsible smashed a window and prised open the door.“Council has requested upgraded security at the site, including new locks and an alarm system.”The body of a walk-through Santa was damaged during a break-in at a Brisbane City Council storage facility.Brisbane City CouncilA Santa hat, smashed up by vandals in a break-in at a Brisbane City Council storage facility.Brisbane City CouncilOther decorations in the shed included Christmas trees, baubles, mirror balls and mistletoe.These decorations were undamaged and will be installed in Brunswick Street Mall and Chinatown Mall.The incident has been reported to police, and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.From our partners