Two new instances of grievous tree vandalism in Wollongong’s northern suburbs show how brazen the culprits have become.
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Both involve major native trees in prominent and highly visible public places. As usual, the trees had stood between homes and the ocean.
A stand of myoporum trees south of Sandon Point at Bulli has been levelled, with heavy winds helping disguise the cause for more than a week.
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But a closer look shows the larger tree has been deliberately felled with a chainsaw.
At Nicholson Park behind Woonona Beach, four banksias have been completely destroyed at the playground.
They have been reported to Wollongong City Council but new trees will be a way off.
“Council has ordered new trees and will shortly be replacing the trees as well as placing signs alerting park users to the fact that the trees have been vandalised,” a spokesman said of the Nicholson Park trees.
“This is unfortunate due to the fact that shade is an integral part of play for users of council’s play spaces.”
Some residents from the northern suburbs have said inaction by Wollongong City Council in finding the culprits, and delays replanting trees, has emboldened the vandals.
The spokesman said the acts would be investigated.
“Council takes all forms of vandalism seriously, whether it involves trees and vegetation on public reserves or infrastructure,” he said.
“As for trees being vandalised on public reserves, Council investigates and where there is sufficient evidence will proceed to a Court prosecution.”
He urged residents to report tree vandalism as soon as they notice it.
Vandalism at Sandon Point and Woonona playground the latest
Two more major incidents of tree vandalism have emerged in the northern suburbs off Wollongong.
Two weeks ago a large group of Myoporum trees was dispatched on public land on Blackall Street in Bulli.
One may have been damaged by heavy winds at the time but the largest one has clearly been felled by a chainsaw cut. The view is improved to Bulli Point and the waves beyond.
Recently a group of four new banksia trees have been broken or cut off near the playground at Nicholson Park in Woonona.
Both of these have been reported to the council.
At the end of July a deliberately lit fire destroyed many trees in the bush behind McCauleys Beach between Thirroul and Bulli. A brand new petrol container was found at the scene the next day. The fire is being investigated.
Large native trees near Sharkeys Beach at Coledale have also been poisoned, with drill holes plain to see.