Seedlings planted to replace vandalised trees at Narrawallee Inlet have been stolen in the most recent act of sabotage on the foreshore.
Earlier this year, 30 Swamp Oaks (Casuarina glauca) were destroyed by vandals, with the tube stock designed to be compensatory planting of this critical vegetation.
Manager – Environmental Services, Dr Michael Roberts, said the latest incident was a painful setback for the Narrawallee Bushcare Group who have been volunteering at the Matron Porter Road site for more than 25 years.
"This area has been diligently managed and maintained by dedicated community volunteers to increase the longevity of the native vegetation in the area," said Dr Roberts.
"Vegetation in foreshore areas protects it and adjacent areas from erosion, critical during storm events that imposes a higher risk from wind erosion, excessive wave action and exacerbated tidal overruns," he said.
"The vegetation also provides habitat for many local animal species."
Just four months ago, 30 Swamp Oaks were destroyed leaving exposed stumps and dead trees. The recent plantings were designed to replace the slain trees and remediate the site to provide coastal protection.
The vegetation in the area is listed as a Threatened Ecological Community under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (NSW). Unauthorised damage like this can impose a fine up to $330,000 under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (NSW).
Council's Ranger Services is investigating the vandalism and will impose fines or prosecute perpetrators of vegetation vandalism across the region. Council will implement all actions under the Vegetation Vandalism Prevention Policy.
Not to be deterred, the Narrawallee Bushcare Group were back on site this week, spreading mulch and replanting.
