Several mature Coastal Banksia trees have been unlawfully cut down at a foreshore reserve in Brighton-Le-Sands, prompting an investigation and restoration work at the damaged site.
Bayside Council says the trees were recently cut down at The Little Grand Parade. The affected trees were Coastal Banksias, a native species found along the eastern Australian coastline.
Council is investigating the incident and has asked anyone with information that could assist to contact Council.
Replacement planting and rehabilitation work is now under way. Council says the work is intended to restore canopy cover, support native habitat and improve dune stability along the foreshore.
The new plants will be monitored and maintained while they become established.
Council has also returned a shipping container featuring a black cockatoo mural to the reserve. It has been positioned in front of the damaged area to block the view created by the removal of the trees and help protect the replacement planting.
CCTV is also being used at the site as a deterrent against further damage.
The loss of mature coastal trees can affect more than the appearance of the foreshore. Established vegetation provides habitat, contributes to shade and canopy cover and can help stabilise coastal dune areas.
Residents who saw suspicious activity around the affected section of Little Grand Parade or have information about the tree cutting can contact Bayside Council as the investigation continues.