A STRETCH of The Esplanade at Cronulla is gaining a reputation as a magnet for tree vandals after about 20 banksia trees were illegally cut down.
After last week’s incident, the stretch of The Esplanade, north of Ingalara Avenue, was described by one bushcare volunteer as well known for illegal tree removal.
Margaret Partridge, who has lived in Cronulla for 14 years, walks along the stretch of The Esplanade every day.
‘‘The trees had been there as long as I can remember,’’ she said.
‘‘It appeared that they had been deliberately cut down and had been laid out neatly beside the footpath.
‘‘Someone had put a note on them saying it was vandalism. A lot people have noticed.
‘‘I hope something is done about it.’’
Esplanade-Cronulla Bushcare group volunteer John Olovich has been involved in bush regeneration in the area for 14 years.
‘‘This is always going on. Over the years I’ve been doing bushcare along The Esplanade there has probably been 100 trees removed,’’ he said.
‘‘As far as I know, no one has ever been fined. You have to catch them.
‘‘It is a bit disappointing. We are trying to improve the area by eradicating weeds and planting native bushes for flora and fauna.
‘‘People are a bit short-sighted. Trees protect buildings and people from the weather and erosion.
‘‘They are also habitat for fauna. This is the most important thing.’’
Sutherland Shire Council is seeking information on the removal of the trees. There are hefty fines under the council urban tree renewal policy for the illegal removal of trees.
The council takes legal action through local courts for unauthorised tree removal. Courts can impose replacement planting, which is covered by a bond, of up to $10,000 a tree.
The council also has a replacement policy of five trees for every one removed in cases of unauthorised tree removal.
Infringement notice fines for the unauthorised removal or damage of trees are $1500 for individuals and $3000 for corporations.
The council has successfully prosecuted offenders in the local court, where fines of up to $15,000 have been imposed.
The incident also attracted concern on social media.
WHO DID IT?
A note (pictured above) attached to the branches of the vandalised banksia said:
‘‘This vandalism occurred over the last few days.
A saw was used, possibly to improve someone’s view.
It was not done by council and they ask if anybody has any information please report it.
These banksia were one of four types collected by Joseph Banks in 1770.
They are or were enjoyed by thousands each day.
It will take many years to regenerate.
It was costly — was it worth it?’’
What do you think happened to the trees?
