Bass Coast Shire Council have erected two large signs at the site of tree vandalism at two localities in the shire. One at the Ventnor Foreshore Reserve and the other at Inverloch Foreshore. These signs are installed to remind residents that interfering with vegetation on public reserves is illegal and will not be tolerated.

Council’s Sustainable Environment Manager, Simon Woodland, said the latest vandalism at these locations is part of a pattern that’s been going on for several years.

“If people think they will get away with destroying vegetation on public land by cutting a bit here and a bit there, they need to think again,” said Mr Woodland.

“Our officers regularly monitor all the foreshore reserves we manage. We investigate all suspicious activity, with methods including lab-testing leaf samples for evidence of herbicide use. While we are building a case for prosecution, offender’s attempts to clear a view or path will be thwarted by large, unattractive signs.”

“The latest signs installed at Ventnor and Inverloch are big – three metres high by three metres wide. We put them up as a further deterrent to tree vandals.”

“Any views that might have been gained by destroying those trees are now ruined by the large signs.”

The sites will be replanted with indigenous coastal dune plant species. The signs will remain in place until the replanted vegetation is well established.

Since European settlement, more than 85 per cent of the Shire’s indigenous vegetation has been cleared. Most of what remains is in coastal reserves where it provides habitat for 153 species of plants and animals classified as under threat or endangered.

“This vegetation is important for the conservation of our natural heritage,” said Mr Woodland.

“Coastal vegetation plays an important role in providing habitat for native animals, stabilising sand dunes, plus protecting nearby houses and roads from the elements.

“The natural character of our coastline is one of the main reasons people choose to live in or visit the area. It is up to all of us to protect it.”

Anyone with information about tree vandalism is encouraged to contact Council on 1300 BCOAST (226 278).