Following feedback from the community, Yarra Ranges Council is undertaking urgent removal of a large tree located in the Warburton Recreation Reserve car park (next to True Value Hardware).
While the tree contributes greatly to the area, it has become dangerous due to a split in the lower trunk, and poses a safety risk to the community.
A recent report compiled on the health and structure of the tree determined that about 80% of it is decayed wood that's caused by a wood-rotting fungus.
There has been significant deterioration in the tree's condition since the last report in 2016, with little structural wood remaining in the tree and, since 2016, Council has made numerous preventative efforts to extend and preserve the life span of this tree.
That work has included regular arborist reports, dynamic cabling, bracing and pruning. Despite Council's best efforts to preserve the tree, reports using a Sonic Tomograph - an instrument used for measuring decay and the structural integrity of trees - have also shown consistent and worsening degradation in the tree wood since 2016.
Currently two cables tied in the tree's upper canopy are currently providing the main structural support for the tree.
You can read the arborist's report here.(PDF, 3MB)
While we have looked at several options to retain the tree given how long it has been in the Recreation Reserve, it has been decided that the safety risks of it remaining are too high.
We understand that the tree has been at the Recreation Reserve carpark for a significant period of time, but it's in close proximity to a main road, walking path and bus stop commonly used by school children which poses an unacceptable risk to visitors and residents.
Although the removal of the tree is necessary, Yarra Ranges Council recognises its community significance and will take steps to protect the wood that comes from the tree. This wood will be made available to the community for use in art, furniture, and other creative projects.
Council will also look to do some replanting in the vicinity of the area once the tree has been removed.
We understand that this news may be disappointing for some, but the safety of our community is our top priority.
