Following a tip off, staff made their way to an area of dunes opposite Harry Court in the newly developed Seascape subdivision to find the tree had been attacked by an amateur arborist in broad daylight.

Team Leader Open Spaces Operations Paul Camburn says he suspects the vandalism was an attempt to improve someone’s views and in doing so, they endangered their own life and put innocent members of the public at risk.

“The tree was in a really bad way and could have dropped at any time. It had been completely hacked at, while the carjack used in the failed attempt had snapped in the process.” Paul adds, “How it didn’t fall and crush the culprit, or a member of the public is a miracle.”

Paul says the recent vandalism is not the first attack on the tree.

“About two years ago we noticed during one of our regular reserve assessments that the same tree had died. Upon closer inspection you can imagine our disappointment to find holes drilled in the tree where poison had clearly been administered.” He adds, “Whoever did this was determined to have that tree gone for good.”

And in an additional blow, Paul says the vandalism is not limited to the Norfolk Pine.

“Those responsible for this are determined to destroy any vegetation that shows any sign of growing upwards in this area.” He adds, “Amongst a 50-metre radius within this specific area in the dunes, they’ve hacked away at every tree in sight to prevent any vertical growth from occurring, and we suspect, blocking their view.”

“We work incredibly hard with tree management and preservation across the rohe, so it’s gutting to come across this kind of attitude.” Paul adds, “We need to educate people on the value of trees. They’re integral to our environment; and with climate change a real threat, we need to protect our dunes as much as possible. The roots of trees and shrubs in our sand dunes are like gold as their foundations contribute to mitigating coastal erosion.”

“If a nearby homeowner is responsible for this, they should really have a long, hard think about what they’ve done and what it means for their, and their neighbours’ properties long-term.”

Damage to trees on reserve land including vandalism, removal, attempted removal and poisoning is illegal. Those found guilty face prosecution and a fine of up to $20,000. Members of the Community are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to Council as soon as possible. 

“If there is a tree of concern in an area near you, come and have a chat with us. Please don’t take matters into your own hands.”
A section of the beach was temporarily closed while specialist arborists felled the tree and worked on its safe removal. Council has launched an investigation into the vandalism. 

Image caption: Council arborists Lewis Rumsey (L) and Malcolm Lowe (R) are unimpressed by the recent attack on a large Norfolk Pine on Council reserve.

Image caption: Any signs of tree life has been felled in a suspected attempt to preserve views.

Image caption: The vandalised Norfolk Pine.