Shameful act of vandalism

I am most concerned at the latest act of environmental vandalism which occurred on the Ettalong waterfront reserve over the weekend of January 6 and 7.

This time a very tall and healthy Norfolk Pine and a large shade tree were cut down obviously to provide better views for those living along the waterfront reserve.

It is a disgrace and I am ashamed that anyone would commit such an act for their own benefit.

Council’s Tree Preservation officer states that the Esplanade between Umina and Ettalong has the highest level of vandalism of this type in the Gosford Local Government Area.

Is it any wonder youths vandalise the surf club and anything else they can lay their hands on when they see this type of behaviour from so-called adults.

A couple of months ago a great many trees and shrubs necessary for dune stabilisation were hacked to pieces in the reserve along The Esplanade to afford residents better views.

These people don’t care about anything or anybody else except themselves and are a good example of what is wrong with society today.

I understood that Council was to erect large boards to block the view in areas where this vandalism has occurred and I was not impressed with the tiny notice installed by the Council which would not put anybody off.

I will be working hard to ensure such boards are erected in all areas where this type of vandalism takes place.

I believe it’s the only way to stop it happening.

I also believe Council should immediately start replanting in these areas and put in good sized trees so these rotters get no advantage for wrecking community property.

Most people living along the waterfront are law-abiding citizens who would never commit this kind of vandalism, however, there are a few who are determined to maximise their own interests at the expense of everyone else.

Well, I’m determined they won’t get away with it.

Cr Lynne Bockholt, January 8