FLIPPIN’ thieves have stolen a popular dolphin sculpture from Pipemakers Park.

Maribyrnong Council recently discovered something fishy had happened after discovering the $30,000 statue had gone missing on July 17.

The piece, meant to symbolise the mammal’s previous presence in the Maribyrnong River, is ironically titled Dolphins’ Return.

The 1.7m high bluestone, concrete and bronze sculpture, is believed to have been removed from its base with an angle grinder.

It was donated to the City of Footscray by the former Forges of Footscray and The Australia Council.

Artist Tom Boland created the piece to show the unique affinity between humans and dolphins and the importance of caring for and protecting the environment, including the river.

The sculpture had previously been in the Nicholson St mall for 25 years before being relocated near a heritage trail at the park in 2006.

Living Museum of the West volunteer Peter Haffenden said he was disappointed that anyone felt the need to steal from a heritage listed park.

He said the sculpture had helped with environment tours and raised questions about dolphins in the river.

“The statue was there to remind people that, although hard to believe, dolphins once could be seen in the river,” he said.

“Someone will probably just melt it down to sell it, which is just criminal.”

Mayor Nam Quach said it was a sad day when a precious piece of artwork, which belongs to the community, was damaged and stolen.

“The Dolphins’ Return sculpture was created for our city to enjoy and has been part of our city’s unique and valued public artworks for decades,” he said.

“The people responsible for this act went to a lot of effort to remove the piece. They would have needed more than one person to lift the heavy piece and transport it out of the park. Removing the sculpture would have created noise and we urge anyone who heard or saw anything to come forward.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.