Tree poisoning at Gunnamatta Park prompts appeal

Banners have been placed in the trees and Sutherland Shire Council will plant eight replacement trees in the area soon in keeping with its tree replacement policy introduced last year.

Mayor Kent Johns is asking anyone with information to come forward.

‘‘We had a great response from the community a few months ago after placing banners in several trees that had been vandalised in Lilli Pilli Point Reserve, so we are hoping that the community will once again come forward with any information on this latest act of destruction, which is simply unacceptable,’’ Cr Johns said.

‘‘Unfortunately, it will take 40 to 50 years for these new trees to reach the mature state of the poisoned trees, so this important part of the shire’s beautiful tree canopy has been lost.

‘‘Tree vandalism on public land is a serious criminal offence and carries heavy fines.

‘‘Some people may think that one or two trees here and there won’t have an impact, but it is this steady loss of trees to improve views, or for other personal gain, that is having a detrimental impact on the number of mature trees in the shire.

‘‘The banners will provide a visual reminder that vandalism has taken place, that fines are applicable and will appeal to the community for information.

‘‘This destruction of trees for personal gain has to stop.’’

Anyone with information about poisoned trees can report it to the council via the Report It app, www.sutherlandshire.nsw.gov.au  or 9710 0333.