Burnside Council declares ‘major crime’ after gum tree is illegally cut down on Ifould Drive at night
The felling of a gum tree near two of Adelaide’s most exclusive streets has been dubbed a “major crime” by the council and is being investigated by police.
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The felling of a protected mature gum tree on one of Adelaide’s most prestigious eastern suburbs streets is being treated as a crime.
Someone used the cover of darkness – and breached Covid lockdown restrictions – to covertly cut down a South Australian blue gum in a public reserve on Ifould Drive, Burnside, about 11pm on Sunday, July 25.
Burnside Council reported the illegal act to police after a tip-off and has asked for community help to find those responsible.
“A chainsaw was heard moments before the tree was felled, with the person(s) responsible seen leaving the area,” a council letter to residents, and supplied to The Advertiser, says.
“Upon inspection, it is evident that the tree was felled by an individual with knowledge of arboricultural practices.
“The tree is considered ‘regulated’ and is therefore protected by state legislation.
“As trees are an important community asset and form part of the urban forest, council values any information that may lead to a successful prosecution against those responsible.”
Under the Planning Development and Infrastructure Act, those found guilty of illegally killing a tree can face a maximum $120,000 fine.
“This matter has been reported to the police as the tree’s amenity value constitutes a major crime,” the council’s letter says.
Ifould Drive and neighbouring Burnalta Crescent are among Adelaide’s most expensive streets, home to several mega-mansions with sweeping views of the city.
Residents include several members of the Shahin family – owners of OTR and Peregrine Corporation – and prominent educators the Raedel family. There is no suggestion that any of these families were responsible for chopping down the tree.
The council refused to comment further on the matter and referred inquiries to police, who confirmed they were investigating.
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