Have your say: Norwood Reserve tree removal program and future enhancements

A staged tree removal program will be implemented for pine trees at Norwood Reserve, with Council seeking the community’s feedback on replanting and future enhancements for the site.

The reserve, located in Ringwood, currently contains 156 mature Pinus radiata (Radiata Pine) trees. In July 2020, an assessment was commissioned by Council to determine the health, structure and useful life expectancy of the trees following some of the trees falling and losing limbs.

The assessment identified that some of the trees were infected with a velvet-top fungi (phaeolus sp) which causes decay in the root plate and lower trunk.

Deputy Mayor of Maroondah and Wonga Ward Councillor Nora Lamont said a further risk assessment carried out identified there was a high risk of failure should the trees remain.

“Advanced decay caused by the velvet-top fungi increases the probability of a tree uprooting. In simple terms, the foundation of these trees is significantly compromised, and a tree, much like a building, cannot stand up without a solid foundation,” Cr Lamont said.

“The assessment has determined that these mature pine trees are at the end of their useful life expectancy and to mitigate any risk to the community should be removed,” she said.

Due to the condition of the pines, a three-year tree removal program has been endorsed by Council, with trees that present the highest level of risk to properties adjoining Norwood Reserve to be removed first.

The first stage of tree removal will begin in February 2021.

“Removal of these pine trees presents an opportunity for Council to work alongside local residents and users of the reserve to identify future enhancements for the site, including replanting of trees, vegetation or potential landscaping,” Cr Lamont said.

“Norwood Reserve is a popular reserve that is well utilised by residents and the broader community, so we want to ensure everyone has an opportunity to have their say on what they’d like to see for the space that will also be enjoyed by future generations,” she added.

Council is hosting two drop-in session for residents to speak with a Council team member about the removal of the trees or their ideas for the space.

The first session was held on Thursday 28 January and there is another one on Saturday 30 January from 10am to 12noon at Norwood Reserve.

“We want to work together to keep our community safe and build a reserve for all users to enjoy now and in the future,” Cr Lamont said.

For more information about the project or to have your say, visit our

If you would like more information on the tree removal program for Norwood Reserve, please contact us on 1300 88 22 33 or 9298 4598.