Port Douglas Road 'avenue of palms' trees facing the axe ASAP

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The trio of oil palms facing the axe are in front of the Oaks Resort Port Douglas. Picture: DSC

A trio of palm trees along the iconic Port Douglas Road “avenue of palms” are facing the chop within days after this week being deemed too dangerous to keep by Douglas Shire Council.

The three oil palms, situated in front of the Oaks resort, are expected to be felled on an unknown date before the end of the year, “subject to contractor availability”, according to a council statement released yesterday.

An independent assessment has found the trees were “structurally compromised” and “highly likely to fail”.

“Based on this expert advice, council will proceed with their removal as a necessary safety measure,” the DSC stated. 

The council said it acknowledged the "community’s appreciation for this well-known avenue of palms” and understood their removal "may be disappointing”.

“Council arborists have been monitoring the palms for the past two months after observing a rapid decline in their health,” the statement read.

“The trees now appear dead, with failed central fronds and significant basal bracket fungi indicating advanced internal decay.

“This decision follows detailed inspections and independent professional recommendations to ensure public safety.”

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