New trees in reserve poisoned

KINGBOROUGH Mayor Paula Wriedt says she is disappointed eight newly planted peppermint gumtrees at a reserve have been poisoned with herbicide.

The council planted 10 of the native trees in collaboration with the Bonnet Hill Community Association, with hopes they would grow to provide a habitat for local wildlife.

The mature trees were grown for two years at the council’s nursery before they were planted at the reserve.

“Along with the Bonnet Hill Community Association, council is very disappointed someone has chosen to destroy this community-driven planting project,” Ms Wriedt said.

The council has no suitable replacement stock.

“Council officers will continue to work the BHCA to understand the motivation for this destructive act,” Ms Wriedt said.

“We need to ensure that any future planting is at low risk of similar vandalism.”

Anyone who has information can contact the council on 6211 8200.