Save Port Jackson Figs: Recent Tree Vandalism Incident in Mosman
Recently, near Balmoral Beach in Mosman, nine Port Jackson fig trees fell victim to vandalism as someone drilled holes into them, raising concerns of possible poisoning.
Following a series of tree vandalism incidents in Sydney, there are growing calls for stricter penalties to deter such destructive behavior.
Currently, Mosman Council, in collaboration with the New South Wales Police, is actively investigating the situation after a vigilant resident reported a suspicious individual in a black hoodie on Sunday night.
The council’s prompt response on Monday morning revealed the distressing sight of nine Port Jackson fig trees with drilled holes, prompting concerns for their survival.
Using the keyphrase “Save Port Jackson figs,” the tree holes potentially served as a means to administer harmful substances to the tree roots, as reported by ABC News. Mosman Mayor Carolyn Corrigan expressed her dismay, labeling the act as “absolutely egregious behavior” during an interview with ABC Radio Sydney. She noted the varying ages of the holes, suggesting that some were older while others appeared more recent. Corrigan speculated that the malicious activity likely occurred under the cover of night, emphasizing the fortunate timing of a resident’s intervention on Sunday night. Swimmers at Balmoral Beach surveyed the destruction to the Port Jackson figs on Friday morning, underscoring the urgency to safeguard these iconic trees.
Community Shocked by the Situation
The tree holes might have been utilized to harm the roots, and attempts have been initiated to rescue the trees.
“Contractors have cleaned the drill hole, treated the surrounding soil with Seasol, and now it’s a waiting game,” stated Cr Corrigan.
There is a cautious optimism that these measures will suffice to save the trees.
“The community will likely be absolutely shocked by this revelation,” expressed Cr Corrigan.
“Can you envision Balmoral devoid of those figs?”
The trees, with five being semi-mature and four fully mature, are situated on The Esplanade, amidst Almora Street and Esther Road.
On one side lie apartments, while on the other side lies the scenic Balmoral Beach.
If the trees fail to survive, Cr Corrigan mentioned that “large banners that will unsettle everyone” will be displayed in their place to denounce the vandals.
“This action is necessary to truly convey the severity of this absolutely atrocious behavior,” she emphasized.
The
Save Port Jackson figs
holes have been cleared, yet the survival of the trees is still uncertain, as reported by ABC News.
Efforts to Raise Penalties
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