Council is urging the community to contact police with any information regarding recent vandalism of the Colac Botanic Gardens Pond.
The vandalism involved forced access to a powerbox near the pond and suspected use of a submersible pump to drain water, resulting in the theft of goldfish.
Evidence suggests vandalism occurred over multiple nights, with further damage to steel mesh barriers, presumably to lower the pump, drain more water and remove remaining goldfish.
A large wet area on the lawn approximately 30 metres from the pond indicates the use of a long hose to redirect the water.
Local police have been notified and patrols of the Botanic Gardens have been increased.
Council's Chief Executive Officer Andrew Tenni said the vandalism of the pond is extremely disappointing.
"Council's Parks and Gardens team works very hard to maintain and protect the Colac Botanic Gardens as a much-loved public space.
"Vandalism of any kind is unacceptable. However, the planning involved with removing water and fish from the pond indicates this act was premeditated and intended to cause specific damage," Mr Tenni said.
Restoration works are scheduled to soon commence on the Colac Botanic Gardens fountain, with works already underway on the fountain in Memorial Square.
"If further vandalism were to occur it could jeopardise the planned upgrades.
"The fountain upgrades are part of a broader plan to enhance the Botanic Gardens for visitors and the Colac Otway community. It would be very disappointing if this work were stalled due to criminal damage.
"If you see any suspicious activity around the fountain or elsewhere in the Gardens, please report it to local police immediately," Mr Tenni said.
