Unwanted pruning hits Shepparton
IN A shocking display of disregard for nature, over two dozen trees have fallen prey to senseless vandalism on Wyndham Street, Shepparton. These appalling incidents, which occurred separately over recent weeks, have left the trees irreparably damaged.
These trees, a vibrant addition to the stretch between Knight Street and Balaclava Road, had their lives abruptly ended, snapped at the base and subsequently had to be removed by the diligent Arboriculture team of Greater Shepparton City Council.
The financial toll of this destruction is staggering, with each tree’s damage and replacement cost amounting to over $450, pushing the total cost beyond $10,000. The 23 crepe myrtle trees, planted in 2022 as part of the Urban Forest Strategy, were just beginning to bloom, symbolising a fresh start for the community.
Expressing disappointment over such destructive acts, Eric Heeps, Council’s Acting Manager Parks, Sport and Recreation, stated, “It is extremely disappointing to see this vandalism occur, with damage caused to the trees in the area on two separate occasions.”
He lamented the need to implement protective measures, adding, “Council will work to replace the trees and install cages around them to ensure this cannot happen in the future. It is a step we didn’t want to have to take however Council want to protect the greenery in the area and prevent the opportunity for further damage.”
The Council urges citizens to maintain vigilance and report any witnessed acts of vandalism to the police, in a bid to preserve the area’s greenery and prevent further damage.
