Dubbo Regional Council is reviewing CCTV footage following the theft of a 2.5m high Carob Tree from Victoria Park earlier this month.
The well‑established tree, valued at approximately $1,200, was removed from the duck pond area within the park.
Funding that was originally allocated for additional plantings in the area will now be redirected to replace the stolen tree.
The incident occurred within one of Council's prestige garden areas and has resulted in a loss for the wider community.
Council experiences the theft of plants and trees across local parks and greenspaces each year, costing thousands of dollars.
These incidents also divert staff time and resources away from planned improvement works, as teams are required to investigate and replant stolen greenery when funding becomes available.