The removal of dying trees can be an emotional issue despite the danger they represent to the community. Councils, responsible for public safety, walk a fine line to balance risk minimisation and local sentiment. This was the case in the East Gippsland Shire town of Lakes Entrance where lateral thinking prevailed to provide the ideal solution.
When cypress pines along the town’s busy esplanade showed signs of deterioration, Council sought expert advice. The trees held special significance as they were planted as a memorial to 27 local young men killed in World War 1.
Works Supervisor Geoff Bird said despite the fact the trees had been pruned into an unattractive shape, were sited under power lines and declared to ‘have had it’ by an arborist their proposed removal brought a strong reaction.
To minimise discontent Council undertook extensive consultation with the local historical society and the public to determine the trees’ fate. Fortune shone in the form of a local chainsaw artist.
Having attended a public meeting on the issue John Brady offered his talents to carve a suitable sculpture from the stump of one of the trees.
His portrayal of a World War 1 soldier captured in the warm gold hues of the cypress and instantly won public approval. Having seen what could be done, money from local industry and business groups, the Progress Association and the RSL flooded in for the project.
Trees too diseased to be carved were removed while the remainder were transformed into a worthy memorial, an avenue of enduring sculptures. A plaque mounted in rock on the foreshore cites the names of the 27 soldiers for whom the trees were planted.
The local historical society tracked details of the trees, the soldiers they were planted for, remaining relatives and other aspects of interest.
Seeds collected from the cypresses have generated new trees, one of which was presented to every traceable descendant of the soldiers and those who planted their trees. The sculptures now stand as a unique and eye catching feature in this famous seaside town.
For further information contact Geoff Bird, telephone (03) 5150 9145.
