Aborist at Cardinia Shire Council Stephen Mannering, councillor Collin Ross and Lakeside Residents Group chairwoman Kathy Burgstahler plant one of 10 new trees beside Lakeside lake. 69503 Picture: Lilly O’Gorman
– Lilly O’Gorman
CARDINIA Shire council is sending a message to vandals – vandalism to trees will not be tolerated in Pakenham.
Ten Wallangarra white gums were planted beside Lakeside lake last week to replace seven young, native trees that were senselessly severed and killed by vandals in May.
Open Space Coordinator at Cardinia Shire Council Mark Reynolds said replacing the trees cost ratepayers thousands of dollars. “It probably cost about $3000 to replace the trees, not taking into consideration the damage that was caused to the existing trees and the removal costs,” Mr Reynolds said.
Cardinia Shire councillor Collin Ross labelled the vandalism as “disgraceful and wasteful”. “A sign will also be erected beside the trees asking people to please care for our trees, and encouraging residents to report incidences of vandalism to the council as soon as it is noticed,” Cr Ross said.
Chairwoman of the Lakeside Residents Group Kathy Burgstahler said she was thrilled that the trees had been replaced. “The residents are extremely pleased with the council’s prompt response to the problem,” Ms Burgstahler said. “If people ring the council on 1300 787 624 and report vandalism the council is extremely prompt to act.”
