The tree war on millionaires’ row: Rose Bay locals blindsided by council decision that could affect house prices. LUCY MANLY reveals why it’s happening – and which suburbs are next: ‘Disgraceful’

by

For weeks, I’ve been hearing whispers of a scandal in Sydney’s most elite enclaves.

No, Kristin Fisher and Dina Broadhurst haven’t fallen out again.

And no, there aren’t any angry husbands coming after playboy publican Stu Laundy.

The commotion in the eastern suburbs revolves around the council’s aggressive tree-cutting initiative, which has upset the affluent residents of Rose Bay and Woollahra.

Instead of my private messages often being filled with sordid stories of disputes and infidelities, I found it hard to disregard the increasing number of grievances about this specific issue.

Sign up for our Showbiz Newsletter from Daily Mail to keep updated on celebrity scandals, fashion faux pas on the red carpet, must-see photos, and trending videos – don’t miss a beat!

It’s not just the case of people not wanting change; the majestic trees that have long characterized these quaint neighborhoods are gradually vanishing, limb by limb.

Last year, the process of reducing excess started towards the end on Balfour Road and persisted into June on Plumer Road, which is quite close to a bustling café district in Rose Bay.

While there was talk about ‘unattractive’ trees affecting property values, I strolled through the neighborhood alongside my dog Licky, curious to hear the concerns of the affected residents.

‘It’s absolutely disgraceful,’ Celeste, a resident of 10 years, tells me.

‘These trees have been here longer than most of the people living on this street.

‘They’re part of the character of Rose Bay, and now they’re just hacking them down like weeds.

According to the council, they distributed letters, but neither my family nor any of our neighbors have received them.

Numerous homeowners in upscale Rose Bay, a neighborhood with a median house price of approximately $5.3 million and an average unit costing around $1.6 million, are often drawn to it due to its scenic tree-lined avenues and enchanting greenery.

Previously, the street was adorned with grand trees that created an arched roof. However, now all that remains are stubby stumps, where lush branches used to create a dense leafy cover.

Charles from Balford Road expresses his frustration by saying, ‘After they trim the trees, I can’t help but question why the cockatoos seem to disappear.’

It’s illogical to demolish their dwellings without them leaving, for it appears more like hidden vandalism. But who gave the green light to such senseless chaos?

In various Australian residential areas, London plane trees offer both comforting shade and a splash of color. However, these trees have been facing criticism due to health issues and the damage their extensive root systems can cause to underlying structures.

This week, the chainsaws moved to Ocean Street in Woollahra – and so did the outrage.

Last month, residents were taken aback upon seeing official notices posted on the trees, outlining proposals to trim or eliminate these verdant landmarks, some of which have provided shade for the street for numerous generations.

‘A council notice states that for the sake of safety, we will carry out necessary trimming on three London plane trees located on the western side of Ocean Street, as these trees have branches affected by decay that could lead to disease.’

However, skeptical local residents and arborists maintain their doubts, contending that the council has fallen short in adhering to industry norms. They claim that the council neglected comprehensive public input and clear professional evaluations.

According to George Palmer, the local arborist in Bondi, the proposed pruning was not essential and could ultimately result in the total uprooting of the trees, as he has been keeping a close eye on the matter.

It’s very troubling and shows a lack of respect for the essential rules that govern tree care and forestry.

Woollahra Council maintains it is simply following procedure.

In our review, emails between Mr. Palmer and representatives from Woollahra Council, such as Andrew Simpson who holds the unique position of Head of Trees, have been uncovered by The Daily Mail.

‘The only people to benefit from these works are the loppers,’ Palmer tells me.

In many cases, contractors earn profits, but councils often argue that these projects are implemented as a means of cutting long-term expenses. This is achieved by lowering maintenance costs, minimizing potential liabilities, and preventing damage to the infrastructure.

Upon being reached out to for a response on Tuesday, a representative from Woollahra Council clarified their reasoning behind the tree trimming.

According to their tree specialists’ evaluation, several trees situated along Balfour and Plumer Roads in Rose Bay, as well as Ocean Street in Woollahra, have been identified with decay due to illness.

‘To prevent tree-limb failure and ensure public safety, pruning the trees is a necessity.

‘By applying this method, it encourages the growth of fresh branches, creating a renewed top portion for the trees. This allows us to manage these trees, which are over 80 years old, without having to cut them down.’

Mr. Palmer remains unconvinced by the council’s rationale, as he holds a very negative opinion of the work quality. He firmly believes that the trees along Ocean Street are ultimately destined to be cut down.

Regarding the longevity of London Plane trees within the Woollahra Council district, Mr. Palmer indicates that any streets featuring these specific deciduous trees are potentially vulnerable to their eventual decline.

It’s evident that although the council might have valid explanations for their actions, one point is undeniably clear: the local residents are far from pleased about it. (I hope this pun-free version still brings a smile to your face!)

Read More

2025-08-05 16:50