Vandals damage reserve in Stirling

The City is reminding the community to be vigilant and is appealing for assistance to identify vandals who cut down at least 30 young trees in a Stirling reserve on the weekend.

The criminal damage at Shearwater Spoonbill Kingfisher Reserve and surrounding streets has been reported to WA Police, including significant damage to 30 young trees and damage to several mature trees.

The vandalism occurred overnight on Friday at the north-western side of the reserve before the trees were discovered by local residents around 7.30am on Saturday 4 October.

The City has inspected the damage and a tree specialist is currently assessing the impact to the younger trees, including Ornamental Fruit Trees and Liquidambers aged 3-5 years.

Mayor Mark Irwin said the wanton criminal damage was incredibly disappointing.

“It’s completely unacceptable that the callous vandalism by a few individuals has damaged all these trees and other assets in a park that is meant to be enjoyed by the whole community,” he said.

“Unfortunately the damage is so extensive that we may not be able to save some of these trees and that’s five years of growth that can’t be replaced.”

The trees were planted about five years ago to provide much needed shade to the pathway.

In response to the vandalism, the City has increased security patrols in the area and a mobile CCTV tower has been deployed to increase surveillance.

Anyone with information that may help to identify the people responsible is encouraged to contact WA Police on 131 444 or reach out to the City on 9205 8555.

The City also runs a 24/7 security patrol service which can be reached on 1300 365 356.

Picture: At least 30 trees were damaged by vandals at Shearwater Spoonbill Kingfisher Reserve.