Anger at coastal tree vandalism

AUTHORITIES are investigating the destruction of sheoak trees in a St Leonards conservation area.

Crown land manager Bellarine Bayside reported last week that trees had been illegally chopped down at Lower Bluff Road, near the St Leonards Yacht Club and the town’s foreshore, likely on the weekend of October 21-23.

The trees were about seven years old and four to five metres in height, with the vandalism frustrating the coastal authority due to the trees’ significance to Traditional Owners and importance in supporting habitat, such as for the tawny frogmouth night birds.

The destroyed trees are just metres away from a sight barrier further along the road where trees had also been recently vandalised.

Bellarine Bayside has shared its frustration at the vandalism and indicated it was investigating the damage with law enforcement.

“We are currently working with police regarding an incident of environmental vandalism after two drooping sheoaks were illegally cut down at Lower Bluff in St Leonards on the weekend,” Bellarine Bayside said in a statement.

“We are extremely disappointed by this incident as native vegetation on the coastal Crown land we manage is culturally significant to the Wadawurrung people and an important public asset that we conserve, restore and maintain for everyone’s enjoyment.

Native vegetation also supports wildlife and the coastal amenity, as well as providing wind breaks and erosion buffers.

“Every case of vegetation vandalism diverts money away from our planned proactive tree management, weed removal and new plantings program.

“Native vegetation is protected under state legislation, and it is in everyone’s interest to ensure it is preserved for future generations.”

The authority has urged anyone with information to contact CrimeStoppers.