Threat to life and limb to be removed

Independent experts have identified that the 3 in 1 tree next to the Royal Mail Hotel in Diyan Street, Tewantin, is nearly dead, and in a high wind or in a storm, there is a danger that the whole tree could topple over. The tree therefore presents a danger to pedestrians, motorists and adjacent buildings.

Work will commence shortly to remove the tree and all precautions to protect pedestrian and motorists will be taken during the removal, including potential road closures in the immediate area.

Sara Cooke, Council’s Parks and Natural Areas Co-ordinator commented  “Council’s two independent arborists have inspected the tree and have diagnosed the tree as being infected with a root-rotting fungal disease from which it cannot recover. 

“The tree will be removed section by section, taken away and burnt to ensure the disease doesn’t spread to other trees."

The 3-in-1 tree comprises a redgum, a fig and a tuckeroo.  The fig and the tuckeroo are already dead, the redgum has the highly contagious root-rotting disease, phelinus noxius, and is structurally unsafe. Council also wants to halt the spread of the fungus.

The three trees were interdependent and have been a fixture of the Tewantin landscape for many years. They have become home to a number of birds that will be sensitively relocated as part of the tree removal process.

Council has been installing new nest boxes in nearby parks to provide attractive new homes for the displaced birds.

Council has made many efforts over the years to make the tree safe however all options have now been exhausted.

17 February 2016