Mayor ‘gutted’ over poisoning of iconic trees
Three rosewood trees that line Warner Street in Port Douglas have been cut into and poisoned, prompting a Council investigation.
The vandalism was discovered earlier this week, during surveying ahead of upgrade works.
Douglas Shire Mayor Julia Leu said the hunt is on for the cultprit/s.
“I am gutted,” she said.
“I am calling on anyone who may have information to contact Council.”
The incident comes just months after the Council retracted plans to cut the trees down, following community outcry.
Almost 2,000 people signed a petition against the move, prompting the Council to find a less invasive way to improve drainage, lighting and pedestrian access along the thoroughfare.
“Together, Council and the community came up with a solution that everyone was happy with, so for some vandal to come along and do this is incredibly disappointing,” Cr Leu said.
The declining health of the poisoned trees will continue to be monitored.
Significant penalties apply for damage or interference with vegetation on Council-controlled land.
