A couple from Seabrook, Gerhardus and Chrisna Snyman, is facing charges of criminal damage after allegedly causing significant harm to cultural and historical artifacts in Bendigo, Victoria. The incident occurred during their visit in May 2024 and involved damage to items valued at approximately $118,000, including a century-old Chinese parade dragon at the Golden Dragon Museum.

During a hearing at the Bendigo Magistrates' Court, it was revealed that the damage bill had been adjusted, with about $60,000 removed due to some items being mistakenly quoted twice. The couple is also accused of damaging other significant sites, including the Bendigo Town Hall, The Great Stupa monument, a military museum, a cathedral, and a cemetery.

The court heard conflicting accounts regarding the couple's intentions. Prosecutors allege that the Snymans deliberately avoided being seen while they sprinkled oil on various monuments, including statues and military plaques. CCTV footage reportedly captured their actions.

Mr. Snyman's lawyer, Marko Habib, argued that only small amounts of oil were used in what the couple considered a "religious act." He stated that they believed the oil could be easily wiped off or washed away by rain. "On each occasion, it would be quite straightforward had somebody wished to deposit far greater oil on far more surface area of the items," Habib said, noting that oil was applied to the feet of lion statues rather than their faces.

Ms. Snyman's lawyer, James Portelli, described the case as "very unusual" and emphasized that the couple had performed similar blessings at home without incident. He stated, "What happened here is clearly regrettable. There's nothing the prosecution can point to that my client was intentional or reckless."

Prosecutor Peter Pickering countered, asserting that the couple knew the oil would need to be cleaned off later, indicating a deliberate act. Magistrate Jarrod Williams acknowledged the complexity of the case and adjourned the proceedings until November.