Media response - Cherry Gardens tree

Published on 09 December 2025

Enquiry – The Advertiser

I'm writing about the removal of a historic Golden Cypress pine from Soldiers Memorial Park - I understand it's one of 13 trees planted more than 100 years ago by the families of World War I soldiers and I wanted to put some questions to the council about it.  

Response

Can the council comment on how an entire tree was removed instead of a fallen branch? Did the council provide wrong instructions or was there a miscommunication?

The tree was mistakenly removed. The contractor should have sought confirmation prior to removal of the entire tree.

Is council taking any measures to make sure this doesn't happen again?

We’ve developed a site management plan, which has been provided to the Cherry Gardens Community Association for their feedback. This outlines the work and processes for the site including the history background, community engagement requirements, maintenance standards and service frequencies.

Is the council considering reparations in the wake of this incident?

We’re working through options for reparations through ongoing communications with the Cherry Gardens Community Association. We also provided an apology to the Cherry Gardens community.

Can council clarify when the tree was removed?

The tree removal occurred on the 15 and 16 October 2025.

Will council continue working with this contractor?

The contractor’s actions have been reviewed by staff as part of our contract management processes and appropriate actions implemented. This includes implementation of new communication protocols with all tree contractors.

Is this the same contractor/company who removed the Lone Pine planted in 2002? Where was the Lone Pine planted and when was it removed?

No, they are different contractors. The Lone Pine was planted near the memorial monument, which was being upgraded. It was removed in 2015.

ENDS