SA Power Networks is calling for public help to identify vandals targeting Stobie poles in Adelaide's north, warning that the criminal behaviour is potentially life-threatening.

In the past five weeks, four Stobie poles have been cut through at the base, causing three to fall. In the worst of these incidents, significant lengths of live wire were left lying in a public space. A person inadvertently touching a live wire could be electrocuted, suffer serious burns, or be killed. 

Equally concerning, one of the Stobie poles was left partially cut and unstable. This pole was near a popular walking and mountain bike track in the Cobbler Creek Recreation Park, which is often used by children. The damage was sufficient that a strong gust of wind had the potential to bring the pole down over the track. Even the smallest Stobie poles can weigh up to a tonne. 

The Cobbler Creek site is also where the fallen live lines were discovered. The Recreation Park was closed to the public for several days for the site to be made safe and repairs carried out.

Another incident on the side of Harris Road at Concordia saw a pole-top transformer brought down and stripped, leaving high voltage equipment on the ground.

SA Power Networks External Affairs Manager, Cecilia Schutz, said these vandals are putting the community’s safety and their own lives at risk, and causing senseless and dangerous damage for no apparent gain.

“It goes without saying that interfering with live power infrastructure is reckless and dangerous,” said Ms Schutz.

“These attacks are particularly alarming because these criminals are not just endangering their own lives, they’re putting innocent members of the community at risk.”

Stobie poles are made of steel and concrete and cutting through them at the base requires significant planned effort. SA Power Networks is asking any member of the public who has previously seen someone in the vicinity of any these Stobie poles with unusual equipment, or who was otherwise acting suspiciously, to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.  The vandals may also have been captured in dashcam footage at Concordia, or in or near the Recreation Park.

SA Power Networks is warning members of the public to be alert to the potential dangers.

“Although the locations of these offences are relatively remote, the damage left behind is creating a significant risk for the public during popular daytime activities,” Ms Schutz said.

“Anyone who sees fallen, low-hanging or damaged powerlines, or a leaning or damaged pole, should stay at least 10 metres clear and immediately call SA Power Networks on 13 13 66.”

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See pictures of the vandalised Stobie poles below.