Yellow Flame tree removal unavoidable: Council

CRUCIAL WORKS

Michael Warren

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A Yellow Flame tree on Macrossan St. Picture: DSC

The issue of preserving local, natural beauty while maintaining and ensuring public safety and protection forced the removal of an aged Yellow Flame tree on Macrossan St in Port Douglas.

Council workers were observed carrying out the work late last week which prompted curious locals to enquire as to the reasoning behind the works.

“The Yellow Flame tree which was growing on the centre garden bed, at the intersection of Macrossan and Wharf Streets was removed Thursday 27 July,” Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr informed Newsport.

“It was showing signs of pathogenic fungus on the root collar.  

“This meant the roots were in a state of decay and the tree would continue to decline as there is no known treatment for this disease.

“The canopy was also showing signs of decline.  The latent buds sprouting along the limbs were the tell-tale sign that the tree was trying to send nutrients to the decaying sapwood at the root collar.

“The contractor who removed the tree has since confirmed the trunk was significantly hollowed out.

Council first disseminated information about last week’s works as early as March, which was followed by more recent email contact and letter drops.

“When a tree is scheduled for removal, there are several avenues employed to inform residents,” Cr Kerr reminded Douglas Shire residents.

“A notice is published on Council’s website. In this instance, the notice was posted on 31 March 2023. The first notice did not give a date, but mentioned it would be after Carnivale, and that a date would be advised.

“Once a date was known, the page was updated.

“An email is sent to immediate neighbours. In this case, Courthouse Hotel, La Cucino, Sports store and Club Tropical were advised 30 March 2023 of the upcoming removal of the tree.

“A second email was sent July 18 to immediate neighbours to confirm 27 July would be the date of removal.

“A leaflet drop was done to all traders surrounding the area on the afternoon of 18 July.  This was done in person providing the opportunity for people to ask any questions.”

“At this time, there are no planned (further) tree removals.”

 

 

 

 

 

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