Redland City Council is seeking public assistance to prevent vandalism of trees and other vegetation following a number of recent incidents across the city.
Impacted areas include public reserves near Cylinder Beach and Home Beach – both at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) – and parts of the mainland.
Mayor Jos Mitchell said tree vandalism came at a cost to the community, was a risk to public safety, and resulted in extensive damage to the natural environment and critical wildlife habitat.
“Anyone who witnesses an act of vandalism is urged to contact Council on 3829 8999 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000,” the Mayor said.
“This information will assist with investigations and help Council to deter any further damage from occurring in the impacted area.”
The Mayor said the public reserve near Home Beach had been damaged three times in the space of a month and included several trees being either poisoned or cut down with a chainsaw.
“Our public spaces are there for the enjoyment of the community. Vandalism impacts our community and our environment,” the Mayor said.
“This case follows repeated vandalism incidents in the public reserve along the headland at Cylinder Beach, where more than 30 trees were poisoned and cut down in 2024.
“Council officers advise that vegetation vandalism has also occurred recently at the Orchard Beach foreshore in Redland Bay; and on the Karragarra Island foreshore near the ferry terminal.
“In response to these matters, Council has launched investigations and is conducting regular surveillance in the affected areas.
“Signage has also been installed in select locations to raise community awareness about the impacts of tree vandalism.”
The Mayor said Council would take compliance action against perpetrators of environmental vandalism.
“While small numbers of people engage in these acts, Council has seen several recent concerning incidents across the city,” the Mayor said.
“Anyone found to have deliberately damaged trees and other vegetation may be issued with a fine under Council’s Local Laws or be prosecuted in the Magistrates Court.
“Council takes a zero tolerance approach against vegetation vandalism and will take action where necessary to protect the local environment.”
