Calling for community support in protection of tree

Sunshine Coast Council is calling for community assistance in the protection of a new replacement tree to be planted along the Golden Beach foreshore this week.

The replacement tree will be the same species, a Casuarina glauca- Swamp Sheoak, as the dead specimen council confirmed was poisoned late last year.

Division 2 Councillor Tim Dwyer said council takes tree attacks seriously and would quickly replant any damaged tree that has to be removed, into the exact same location.

"If convicted for poisoning a tree, offenders can face fines up to $85,000, in addition to being liable for costs to compensate the community for the monetary value of the tree and costs associated with removal and replacement of the vegetation," Cr Dwyer said.

"Council will also always make every effort to save a tree.

"Unfortunately, after exhausting all options for its management, this poisoned tree along the Golden Beach foreshore will have to be removed.

"We have now completed consultation with local residents and will?commence removal of the poisoned tree and immediate replacement this week.

"In line with council's Aboricultural Services Operational Procedures, the replacement tree will have an appropriately sized timber guard installed around it to elevate the level of protection during its establishment phase.

"Council staff will also undertake more intensive monitoring of the new tree.

"But most importantly, we are calling for the community of Golden Beach to support the protection and growth of this new tree."