“Shocked and disappointed”: Borough takes aim at tree vandals

CONSERVATION regulators will investigate an illegal vegetation clearing at the Queenscliff foreshore.

The Borough of Queenscliffe confirmed on Friday last week (August 4) that it has called state investigators to look into the vandalism at Crow’s Nest Place.

The impacted area has been fenced off and signs erected to inform passers-by of the act.

The incident is believed to have occurred on Saturday, June 24, with the council alerted to the issue on June 26.

Officers from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) visited the site on July 12, and on July 27 gave consent for the council to take further action.

The borough said in a statement it was “shocked and disappointed to learn of the the clearing, which it said would have significant flow-on impacts in the community.

“Every case of vegetation vandalism costs ratepayers, and depending on the severity of the case, the cost to the community can be significant for investigation, signage, replacement, and remediation.

“However, the costs in terms of native habitat, visual, historical, and environmental value, and urban character, require far more effort and time to recover.”

Anyone found responsible for the vandalism will be charged for the cost of fixing the site and additional fines.

The borough has encouraged residents with information about the incident to contact the council’s local laws team on 5258 1377.