A community wetland in southeast Queensland has been left damaged after about 70 native trees were suspected of being illegally cut down and used to build a makeshift bush hut.
Fraser Coast Regional Council said the destruction occurred at Fay Smith Wetlands in Maryborough, where a hut, fencing and a tarp roof had been constructed using trees taken from the council-managed reserve.
In a video shared by the council, Fraser Coast councillor Paul Truscott stood before the structure and condemned the damage.
“See this hut here behind me, it was made by someone or a group of people illegally cutting down 70 trees here at the Fay Smith Wetlands,” he said.
“It’s pretty disappointing really, and it comes with consequences.”
The 70 trees cut down could cost taxpayers about $70,000. Source: Facebook/FCRC
Damages could cost taxpayers about $70,000
The wetlands at the corner of Neptune and Victory streets are home to walking tracks and a diverse range of native plants and wildlife. They are also maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers who help restore and protect the reserve.
The council said illegal tree clearing reduces biodiversity, destroys wildlife habitat and can take many years to recover.
“If the council pays to re-invest and put mature trees back in here, that comes at a cost to the ratepayer of about $70,000, which is huge,” Truscott said.
“Please do the right thing, don’t destroy the wildlife.”
Under current penalties, damaging native trees without council authorisation can attract fines of about $166 per tree.
If applied to all 70 trees, the penalties could exceed $11,600. Additionally, the total amount could be higher if any other applicable enforcement actions are taken.
Do you have a story? Contact newsroomau@yahoonews.com
Council said the damaged area is expected to regenerate over time with support from staff and volunteers. Source: Queensland Tourism & Events
RELATED
Cutting trees impacts flora and fauna, officer says
A Fraser Coast Regional Council environmental officer said the damage could also make the wetland more vulnerable to erosion.
“Just behind the site here, there is actually a creek line, so if that tends to flood, there will be less mature trees and their roots to hold the banks together,” she said.
“(Cutting trees) also impacts the local native wildlife that needs these trees for food and, when the trees get old enough, for hollows as well.”
A Fraser Coast Regional Council environmental officer said the damage could also make the wetland more vulnerable to erosion. Source: Facebook/FCRC
Wetland tree cutting investigation continues
Council said the damaged area is expected to regenerate over time with support from staff and volunteers, who will continue restoring the site using tube stock and encouraging natural regeneration.
An investigation is ongoing, and anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has information about the damage is urged to contact Fraser Coast Regional Council on 1300 79 49 29 or visit their website.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and YouTube.