BEC removes old and dangerous trees from carparks

Brisbane Entertainment Centre is removing a “significant” number of trees which are considered dangerous or have passed their natural lifespan.

An area of trees opposite Car park 2 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall. Picture: Michelle Smith

Brisbane Entertainment Centre is removing a “significant” number of trees from its car parks.

Many of the trees are considered dangerous due to falling branches and others have passed their natural lifespan, BEC general manager Trish McNamara said this week.

Ms McNamara said the Boondall centre was now 35 years old and all trees within the car parks, primarily Australian natives, were planted soon after its completion in 1985.

Car park 2 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall. Picture: Michelle Smith

“It is an accepted fact that the only downside of many such varieties is their relatively short lifespan – most shrubs will be lucky to get 20 years old,” she said.

“Over the past few years, the centre’s horticulture maintenance team has been replacing many of the original plantings as they grow beyond their life in less public trafficked areas.

“Many of the larger gum trees have grown to the point of being dangerous, regularly dropping boughs which has become a major issue around car parks.

“As we move into the winter slow-growth season, and particularly during the period of no event activity due to the Federal Government ban on mass gatherings, the Brisbane Entertainment Centre is using this time to undertake project work on the venue and also the grounds.

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“There is a significant tree removal program that is taking place across the car parks at this time and is nearing completion.”

Some of the reasons trees are being removed:

■ Dangerous trees or falling branches where vehicles park and pedestrians walk;

■ Removal due to kerbside damage causing pedestrian trip and falls;

■ Termite infestations;

■ Increase visibility particularly around lighting and CCTV for public safety; and

■ They have passed their natural lifespan.

Ms McNamara said only trees surrounding the car parks or pedestrian walkways were being removed.

“These trees will be mulched and returned to the garden beds,” she said.

“Trees still remain in the car parks and not all have been removed. Further planting programs are planned.”

Other grounds maintenance at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre includes:

■ Hazard reduction burns conducted annually (between July and November);

■ Mechanical clearing is carried out weekly on fire trails;

■ Weekly maintenance occurs on the lake system;

■ Weeding;

■ Maintenance on pedestrian pathways; and

■ Preservation of wildlife and their natural habitats.