A Glen Waverley resident has been fined $9,000 for poisoning an established 18-metre lemon-scented gum tree on their property following an investigation by City of Monash Council.
Monash Mayor, Paul Klisaris, said Council’s action reinforces the importance of the local tree canopy.
“Our trees matter. They cool our neighbourhoods, clean our air, make our streets walkable and protect Monash’s cherished garden character,” said Mayor Klisaris.
“We know how important they are to our community and Council will continue to investigate reports of tree poisoning to protect our crucial tree canopy.”
The Council says the tree was poisoned when its trunk was drilled with eight holes and filled with a green substance, with bark glued to disguise the holes (pictured). Laboratory analysis showed the substance in the tree was glyphosate.
The property falls within a Vegetation Protection Overlay, which covers some of the northern and eastern parts of Monash to preserve vegetation, encourage regeneration of native plants and trees, and protect habitat for native animals.
Under the Vegetation Protection Overlay, a planning permit is required to remove or destroy vegetation that is higher than 10m and has a trunk circumference greater than 50cm (16cm diameter) at 120cm above ground level.
In Ringwood Magistrates’ Court in June, the Glen Waverley resident pleaded guilty to one count of failing to comply with the Monash Planning Scheme. They were found guilty without conviction and fined $9,000, with costs of more than $4,000 being awarded to Council.
A replacement tree has been planted in place of the poisoned tree.
