Before and after pictures tell the story of the heartbreak Marilyn and Frank Somers suffered as a result of the council-Ausgrid tree removal program.
Up till a fortnight ago, their home of 57 years in Waratah Street, Sutherland, stood in a picturesque setting, nestled behind beautiful street trees.
Now, they look out on bare dirt. It’s a similar situation in many other spots along the major thoroughfare, where large trees have been removed.
The number of trees removed is estimated at 30.
Sutherland Shire Council says the trees had to go because of interference with power lines and many nearing the end of their natural life and becoming unsafe.
Mrs Somers said the trees in front of their home appeared to be in good health.
“If they were a problem for the power lines, couldn’t they have just lopped them? she asked.
The first the couple knew of the program was a letter from the council saying trees to be removed would be marked with pink paint.
“We were devastated when we saw the pink paint on our trees,” she said. “They have part of our lives for 57 years.
Mrs Somers said the council had given them vouchers for free, 200mm trees from the council nursery to plant on their property.
“It will take years before any of those trees grow to any significant height,” she said.
A spokeswoman said council’s goal is to plant the right tree species, in the right spot to ensure maintenance by Ausgrid is not required.