‘Extremely Significant’ Environmental Vandalism In Coastal Community

Vandals have destroyed an area of important vegetation along a local foreshore for the second time in two years.

Council officers have finalised an investigation into the apparent poisoning of trees along the foreshore at Belmunda, deeming the incident “extremely significant”.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the area, near Macartney Drive, had only just been replanted after an earlier act of environmental vandalism in 2023.

“About 20 young trees, which were planted a little over 12 months ago, appear to have been poisoned with a herbicide,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s extremely disappointing that this kind of environmental destruction has happened again in this area,” he said.

“This kind of act not only has an impact on this coastal ecosystem, but also a financial impact on ratepayers.

“Foreshore vegetation plays an important role in erosion control and providing wildlife habitat.”

Mayor Williamson said the financial cost of responding to this vandalism was expected to be close to $20,000.

Council has today supported a recommendation to replant 100 trees to replace the 20 that were damaged or poisoned.

A 6.0m x 1.5m billboard sign will be erected in the affected area and remain in place for at least five years.

Council’s Vegetation Vandalism Policy states that responses to any acts of environmental vandalism should be adapted to meet the perceived motivation.

Mayor Williamson said it was vital the community alerted council of any potential environmental vandalism and provided evidence where possible.

“In this instance, there wasn’t enough evidence to be able to prove who was responsible for this act and we would encourage anyone with information to contact council,” he said.

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A site inspection at Belmunda showed evidence of poisoning along the foreshore. Photo supplied

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