TEN recently planted elm trees were attacked and snapped near Lake Weeroona on the weekend, leaving a trail of dead trees strewn along the side of Napier Street.
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It was the latest in a string of vandalism attacks in recent years on the strip of road, which runs from Lake Weeroona to Weeroona Avenue, and could cost the City of Greater Bendigo almost $4500 to plant replacements.
An early morning walker spotted the dead trees on Monday morning, and alerted the Bendigo Advertiser.
A pole had also been ripped from the ground and left on its side. It was unclear when the incident took place.
The walker said young trees were usually killed in the area at least once a year, for the past four years, and described it as “disgusting, wilful damage”.
“Sometimes it happens all the way to the lights at the lake,” she said.
“Most times, though, it’s that block between the lake and Weeroona Avenue.
“You will notice all the younger trees there that have been replaced due to this vandalism.”
The City of Greater Bendigo planted the elm trees in 2014.
Council parks and natural reserves manager Debbie Wood said the damaged trees will be removed in the coming days.
“We are very disappointed to see this blatant vandalism as the elms were planted in 2014 and were well established,” Ms Wood said.
“The city has worked hard to make Bendigo an enjoyable and attractive place to live and this vandalism can only be described as completely senseless.
“If residents notice people or individuals acting suspiciously or witness any blatant acts of vandalism they should contact the police immediately.”
Each tree cost $440.
The vandalism appeared to be indiscriminate, with some trees left alone while others were completely snapped and dragged away.
Anyone with information about the incident can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.