Several trees planted by the Shire of Murray along South Yunderup’s Wellya Crescent Reserve have been deliberately attacked with an axe and destroyed, in a senseless act of vandalism.
According to Shire President David Bolt, the act was a targeted and purposeful destruction of trees and is an offence which the Shire will look to prosecute.
“Not only are these acts a nuisance to reserve users, associated replacement costs are ultimately at the expense of ratepayers,” Cr Bolt said.
“Community consultation has identified a public desire for greener streets and parks and the Shire therefore developed its tree planting program to make the district and its amenities more visually appealing and inviting for residents and visitors.”
Cr Bolt said the trees would have also played an important role in the local environment.
“Trees are important community assets and assist in ensuring a healthier environment through their capacity to combat climate change and provide oxygen,” he said.
“Trees help clean the air, conserve energy and cool the environment by shading our homes and streets.
“Trees save water, help prevent water pollution and soil erosion, create a habitat for fauna and provide protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays, especially pertinent for this South Yunderup reserve.
“It is in individual and the wider community’s best interest, that tress are preserved and respected and that community members support Shire greening initiatives.”
In 2016, the City of Mandura urged Madora Bay residents to report any suspicious actions following tree vandalism in McLennan Park.
The attacks saw 12 trees vandalised that had been recently planted in the reserve.
The damage included the tree trunks being chopped which was expected to impact their growth and shape.
Ring-barking, cutting down, lopping, removing, or pruning of any trees in public land is illegal.
Residents are encouraged to report vandalism by calling the Shire of Murray on (08) 9531 7777.