Police hunt repeat Jack’s Point tree vandals
Police and Jack’s Point representatives are on the hunt for the culprits responsible for chopping down up to 10 large, established black poplar trees by a popular walkway linking Hanley’s Farm with Jack’s Point, some left dangerously with their trunks half cut.
The latest in a spate of four attacks on the trees on private land near Willow Pond at the Hanley’s end of the track occurred overnight sometime on Sunday (8 June) and Police want to hear from anyone who heard or saw anything suspicious in the area.
Jack’s Point owners’ representative Mike Coburn says 10 trees have been chopped down or vandalised there since February and he believes the likely motive or those responsible is probably to “improve their view of Coronet Peak”.
The walkway has recently been completed through the beautiful 40-year-old black poplars for people to enjoy as a public amenity. “These continual attacks on the trees are diminishing this amenity,” he says.
These “irresponsible individuals” have cut down the trees on four occasions. “Unfortunately, they’re clearly inexperienced on the use of chainsaws as on each occasion some of the trees have been partially cut through, or have caught on other trees, creating a dangerous situation,” he says. “These trees could fall at any time.”
He says the landowner has had to employ a specialist tree contractor to remove the damaged trees at considerable expense.
“The offenders may be unaware that these trees are on private property therefore they’re guilty of willful damage and trespassing,” Coburn says. “The police have been informed and information from the public leading to the apprehension of these vandals would be greatly appreciated.”
Jack’s Point Residents and Owners Association administrator Kezia Evans says a letter drop will go out soon to nearby residents around Reedland and Marsh Streets and Forage Road at Hanley’s Farm, calling for any information to help Police with their inquiries. Last weekend’s attack was the second incident in several weeks. “These trees are a wonderful haven for birds too,” Evans says.
If you have any information relating to this tree vandalism please contact Police on 105, quoting the number 250609.
