Sudden Demise of a Street Tree in Floreat

Published on 15 October 2020

The Town of Cambridge is very disappointed by the sudden demise of a 60-70 year old Camphor Laurel street tree on Ulster Road in Floreat.

The tree is located on a site which has been at the centre of a development application which requires the tree to remain.

Photos taken in March 2020, indicate that the tree was then in good health and vigour.

However, during a recent site inspection this month, the health of the tree had rapidly declined and appears dead.

The Town’s tree inspection report and photographs identified a number of, what appear to be, drill holes in the trunk which may have been used to deliberately to poison the tree.

Mayor Keri Shannon said that Council will be considering a report at next week’s Development Committee Meeting regarding the matter, including the application of Council Policy – ‘Street Tree Protection During Property Development’ which includes a provision for a large sign to be erected on the verge where the vandalised tree is.

“People need to be aware that the destruction of the street tree is an offence under the Town of Cambridge Local Government and Public Property Local Law”, she said.

“If convicted, the offender could be liable for costs up to $5000 fine and additional costs to replace the tree as well as court costs.

“This is timely reminder to everyone that with so many houses and businesses with CCTV these days the chances of being caught on camera in the act of vandalism has increased significantly.

“We are calling for any possible CCTV footage from the area to help with the investigation into the matter.”

The Town has also asked for persons with any information to come forward and contact the Contact the Town on 9347 6000, email on [email protected] or via the Report It tab on the Town’s webpage.

All contacts and information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.