Vandals drill, poison Redland Bay trees in foreshore attack that could end in $137K fine

A bayside council is investigating a destructive, targeted tree killing spree along a prized foreshore, where vandals poisoned, drilled, and cut down trees overlooking Moreton Bay.

Some dead trees on The Esplanade at Redland Bay overlooking Moreton Bay. Picture: Judith Kerr

A bayside council has launched a citywide investigation and is hunting for vandals who destroyed protected trees along a prestigious foreshore, with culprits facing fines of more than $137,000.

Redland City Council officers are investigating the deliberate poisoning, drilling, and cutting down of more than a dozen trees along Redland Bay’s The Esplanade, an ecologically significant strip known for its picturesque views across Moreton Bay.

Among the targeted vegetation is a large, mature fig tree with holes drilled in its trunk and signs of poisoning.

While it still had leaf coverage during a recent inspection, officers said the damage was likely fatal due to the delayed effects of the chemicals.

Drill holes in the trunk of one of the trees damaged along the Redland Bay foreshore. Picture: Redland City Council

“A pesticide appears to have been applied to the cuts to speed up the decay process, with some trees being felled towards a nearby pathway,” the council said.

The attack has triggered serious environmental consequences.

Foreshore erosion has begun to set in due to the loss of tree cover, and council warns the damage will require significant time and resources to repair.

The vandalism is believed to have occurred gradually over several months, with the methodical application of chemicals accelerating the decline of various native tree species.

The deliberate felling of trees near walkways has also raised concerns about public safety.

The impacted area is a key habitat for local wildlife and serves as a natural defence against coastal erosion, now visibly worsening.

The vandalism occurred along the foreshore embankment east of The Boulevard at Redland Bay. Picture: Redland City Council

The council has stepped up patrols and surveillance in the area and pledged a thorough investigation to identify those responsible.

It has reiterated that all cases of vegetation vandalism on public land are taken seriously and will be prosecuted where evidence allows.

Under Local Law No. 6 – Protection of Vegetation, those found guilty of unlawfully damaging protected vegetation face penalties of up to 850 units, or $137,105 at the current unit rate.

This latest incident follows a similar case from October 2024, when 36 trees were vandalised at Point Lookout on North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah), drawing widespread community outrage.

Council is urging anyone with information to come forward or contact Crime Stoppers.

Originally published as Vandals drill, poison Redland Bay trees in foreshore attack that could end in $137K fine