Shoal Bay Foreshore Replanted as Council Responds to Tree Vandalism

newy.com.au – Port Stephens Council has launched a tree replanting project along the Shoal Bay foreshore in response to repeated acts of vandalism that have damaged local vegetation. Five new Cook Pines were planted on 22 July 2025, with the aim of restoring the area’s natural beauty and preventing further environmental harm.

The move follows significant damage in March this year when the last three trees remaining from an earlier planting effort were found with trunks cut and branches snapped. The damaged trees had themselves replaced an earlier set that had been poisoned.

Mayor Leah Anderson described the vandalism as both “disappointing and frustrating”, adding, “Tree vandalism is such a selfish act that has lasting impacts on the wider community, our public spaces and most importantly the local environment.”

The foreshore was originally upgraded in 2021 with the planting of 11 trees. However, that number has steadily declined due to repeated vandalism. In response, Council has installed surveillance cameras in an effort to deter future offences.

Greg Kable, Director of Facilities and Infrastructure, said Council is committed to reducing ongoing malicious damage. “What’s really disappointing is that these trees that were vandalised had been recently planted to replace previously poisoned trees,” he said.

The new Cook Pines have been placed to preserve nearby water views while improving the visual appeal of the foreshore. Mayor Anderson, who participated in the planting alongside Council staff, urged residents to protect public spaces. “Every act of vandalism undoes the hard work of council staff and community volunteer groups like Landcare,” she said.

Council reminded the public that vandalising public or private trees is an offence. Fines of up to $3,000 can be issued, and offenders may also face legal action.

Details on Council’s Tree Vandalism Policy are available at portstephens.nsw.gov.au/development/trees.