Beyond irritating, it is a low act.

It has no point, no benefit to the perpetrator, but to instill a sick sense of twisted achievement, knowing that they have sabotaged the hard work of someone else.

The ugly spray painted “tags”, symbols and insults besmirch not only our community buildings and infrastructure, but taint the reputation of true street art.

Public areas can quickly turn from inviting areas, to areas to avoid, when perpetrators and their graffiti leave their marks.

In Launceston, vacant shops near the St John Street bus stop have been targeted by disrespectful people.

Already, this area has a reputation for anti-social behaviour.

Perhaps this reputation would have once been unwarranted, but it is hard to argue against it when swear words are scrawled on the side of buildings, windows smashed, and aggressive behaviour exhibited to passersby.

The problem of graffiti here falls between the gaps.

Because it is on privately owned property, it falls to the building owners to clean up – not the city council, despite the content being rude and inflammatory.

While Tasmania Police have honed in on this area as one to watch, and patrol it regularly, they can’t be there all the time.

That’s when the community steps in.

Understandably, it might be too scary, or a risk to your personal safety, to try and stop an offender while they’re mid-graffiti.

But the offence can be reported to police. Descriptions of the offender can go a long way to ensure they’re brought to justice.

Anyone caught graffiting faces a fine of up to $3140.

They should also be made to clean up not only their own mess, but other people’s.

While there are other crimes and issues that need attention, graffiti and vandalism is one that should not be overlooked.

They are crimes that target the pride of our community.

The dedication of so many good people is undone by the poor actions of a few, who have no comprehension of respect or hard work.

The money spent on reparations and cleaning is money that’s taken away from improving the community.

The man hours police put into chasing down these petty people could be spent on wider operations.