Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Wednesday, 7 September, 2022. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Kialla tree vandalism costly and disappointing

Over the past two years the same juvenile trees in Ganaway Reserve have been specifically targeted and deliberately vandalised by individuals.

Council’s Manager Parks, Sport and Recreation Tim Zak, said this level of vandalism has not been seen anywhere else in the municipality since the Urban Forest Strategy began in 2017.

“The Arboriculture staff who plant the trees take great pride in their work. They are so disappointed to see this type of anti-social and destructive behaviour from certain individuals. It is hard to understand the motive behind the damage and what they have to gain,” said Mr Zak.

“The community of Kialla around Ganaway Reserve is missing out on having shade trees added to their neighbourhood. All this does is set back the time it takes for new trees to be planted and established.”

“There is also a cost associated with the vandalism; the cost to replace the trees including the staff time and the delay in achieving our 40 per cent canopy cover under the Urban Forest Strategy.

“Council will continue to replant in this area until successful in establishment. If any members of the community have any information regarding this matter can you please make contact with the Shepparton Police.”

For more information on the importance of the Urban Forest Strategy please visit our website.