Deakin Avenue tree removal

Published on 13 December 2018

Council has been forced to remove a large sugar gum from Deakin Avenue early next week due to its poor health and potential risk to passers-by.

The tree is located near the corner of Eighth Street and Deakin Avenue, close to the Mildura Law Courts and shows clear evidence of poor health.

Councillor for Environment and Farming Sustainability Anthony Cirillo said the large diameter tree has been deteriorating rapidly in recent weeks and will soon pose a serious risk to the hundreds of commuters that pass this area each day.

“Unfortunately this tree is beyond saving and is once again further evidence of the impact of inappropriate lopping practices many years ago,” Cr Cirillo said.

Specialist contractors will be brought in to remove the three which is expected to take three days - from Monday 17 December to Wednesday 19 December.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane in the immediate area of the works while they under way, and we ask motorists to take note of any signage.

Cr Cirillo said that while the poor health of the tree has forced Council to remove it now, it was one of several trees earmarked for removal in the future as part of the next stage of the Deakin Avenue redevelopment. A date is yet to be set for the next stage of this project.

Council recognises that trees, and the Deakin Avenue sugar gums in particular, are highly valued by residents, however priority must be given to community safety, particularly when the tree concerned is beyond saving.

Council has consulted with groups including Greening Mildura and the Mildura and District Historical Society as part of the planning for the tree removal.

Media enquiries  Ben Piscioneri p) (03) 5018 8689  e) [email protected]