Georges River Council has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the local environment and staff safety following the prosecution of a tree lopper who was obstructing Officers from Council's Compliance Team during an investigation into an illegal tree removal at a property in Mortdale.
On Tuesday 19 August 2025, the tree lopper was convicted in Sutherland Local Court for breaching the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, following the incident in April 2025 with the magistrate imposing a fine of $6,600 and professional costs of $500.
Council places a strong emphasis on protecting trees within its area and has comprehensive tree management processes in place to protect and enhance the urban tree canopy. This includes an over-arching Tree Management Policy and the relevant sections of Council's Development Control Plans (DCPs).
Council's vision is for a local government area that prioritises the protection of trees for their ecological, aesthetic, social and economic contribution to our lifestyle, and encouraging international best practice for managing the existing tree population and planting of future canopy.
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said, "Trees are an important contributor to the character of Georges River and our Council staff play a key role in protecting our local environment.
"Council takes matters like this very seriously and will continue taking a strong stand to protect the trees and river for our community.
"Trees are not just part of our landscape; they are part of our legacy. Protecting them means preserving the health, beauty, and resilience of our local area for generations to come."
Council's investigation into the alleged illegal tree removal is ongoing.
