AUTHORITIES are investigating the deliberate vandalism of several trees in an ecologically sensitive area of Redland Bay.
The damage occurred along the foreshore embankment east of The Boulevard and involved trees being drilled, poisoned, and felled.
The area is considered environmentally significant due to the habitat it provides for local wildlife.
A Redland City Council spokesperson described the destruction as “extremely concerning from an environmental perspective”.
“The loss of trees along the foreshore is extremely concerning from an environmental perspective as this site provides important habitat for wildlife,” the spokesperson said.
“Foreshore erosion has also occurred in the area as a direct consequence of the vandalised trees and the damage will take significant work to repair.
“Council is conducting a thorough investigation into this matter, as it does with all cases of tree damage on Redlands Coast.”
Council believes the vandalism occurred over a period of several months and has since increased surveillance in the area.
“A pesticide appears to have been applied to the cuts to speed up the decay process, with some trees being felled towards a nearby pathway,” the spokesperson said.
“A variety of tree species have been impacted, including a large, mature fig tree which was found with drill holes.
“While the tree still had leaf coverage during an inspection this week, poisonings can take several days or weeks to become visible and this tree is also expected to die.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact Council or Crime Stoppers.
Penalties for damaging vegetation on Council land can include fines and, in some cases, prosecution through the Court.
This incident follows another case of tree vandalism reported in October 2024 at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), where 36 trees were affected.
“Vandalism of trees and other vegetation on Council land will not be tolerated,” the spokesperson said.
“An investigation into this incident is under way and Council is conducting surveillance in the area, including patrols, to deter any further damage from occurring.
“Our natural environment and public foreshore need to be protected from acts of vandalism and we are asking the community to assist with information on the incident.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact Council on 3829 8999 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
