Appeal for help to find tree kill culprit

Council is appealing for information from the public to identity those responsible for the suspected poisoning of more than 10 protected trees on Shields Street at Tewantin.

It’s the second suspected poisoning of trees at the eastern end of Shields Street, where the cul-de-sac fronts Lake Doonella, since 2011.

Council’s Environment Manager Craig Doolan said officers had interviewed nearby residents and were investigating.

“We’ve tested soil samples from the site and these have found traces of the same herbicide found back in 2011,” Mr Doolan said.

“This particular chemical has a long half-life and is highly mobile within the soil, so it may yet impact further vegetation and marine plants in the area.”

Some of the affected trees are within the Doonella Wetlands Nature Refuge – a crucial Noosa River mangrove habitat.

Mr Doolan said Council staff erected signs at the site to appeal for information from passers-by and alert the community that Council was investigating.

“However, when Council staff returned to the site several days later someone had removed the signs.”

Mr Doolan said Council hoped to prosecute following the death of the trees. Anyone interfering with vegetation on public land could face fines of more than $130,000.

“We’ve been contacted by several local residents who’ve offered information and we encourage anyone else who may be able to assist us to phone Council on 07 5329 6500.

“Interfering with vegetation in natural areas is a serious offence and Council takes these matters very seriously.”

18 January 2019