A VANDAL described by an outraged resident as an “antisocial idiot who was given a chainsaw for Christmas” has caused major damage to at least eight trees, and possibly as many as 12, on the foreshore and behind Coles at Hastings.
Residents reported hearing the chainsaw in the marina area about 12.30am, Saturday 26 December. Brian Fox said he had notified the shire. “Who would do such vandalism?” he asked.
It is hoped police may be able to use CCTV footage from Holy Trinity Church on Church Street to nab the offender who also cut down two silver birches on Church Street behind Coles.
Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Jessica Wingad said she had received “multiple reports from the community about vandalism to these much-loved mature trees and we share the community’s disappointment”.
“An inspection revealed eight trees had been cut down near the bowls club and large limbs with a diameter of 25-30cm had been cut from a further four trees.”
Ms Wingad said works teams were arranging the clean-up and removal of debris last week. She said the shire would “work with the police to determine any action”.
“We will also develop a replacement tree program and encourage any community member interested in helping out with replanting to contact us,” she said.
Hastings police urges anyone with information to call them on 5970 7800.
First published in the Western Port News – 13 January 2021
