Home / Environment / Mosman Hires 'Tree Cop' Amid Vandalism Spree
Mosman Hires 'Tree Cop' Amid Vandalism Spree
2 Jun
Summary
- A Mosman resident discovered her conifer tree poisoned with herbicide.
- Vandals allegedly targeted the tree to improve neighbours' views.
- Mosman Council is hiring a full-time tree compliance officer.
A resident in Mosman, Sydney, discovered her half-century-old conifer tree was deliberately poisoned. The tree showed signs of herbicide being applied through 14 drilled holes near its roots, an act attributed to vandals seeking to enhance neighbours' views. This incident is one of several tree vandalism cases plaguing Sydney's harbourside councils.
Mosman Council is taking a proactive stance by hiring a full-time tree compliance officer, a move inspired by the success of a similar role in Willoughby Council. Arborists report a significant increase in intentional tree killings, with some advocating for prison sentences for offenders. The new officer will focus on proactive surveillance to prevent further illegal acts.
Past incidents include the poisoning of nine Port Jackson fig trees in Balmoral in 2024 and a 100-year-old fig tree in Woolwich last year. Lane Cove Council also investigated suspected chainsawing of numerous trees in Woodford Bay Reserve. Mosman Council is also considering CCTV in high-risk areas and plans to replace a view-obstructing banner with a new Port Jackson fig tree.
