By Esther Lauaki
Vandals have struck newly planted trees in Werribee.
Manor Court Werribee Aged Care manager Ross Smith said staff and residents had been on the lookout since about 10 trees were uprooted, broken or reduced to stumps in surrounding streets earlier this month.
“It’s very disappointing that the trees have been damaged,” Mr Smith said.
“Wyndham council planted new nature strip trees in Market Road, Dewan Avenue and Hogan Grove.
“These are well-established trees that are about one and a half metres high with stakes and mulch.
“Unfortunately, the youth of the area have taken a dislike to the trees.
“Just about every one has been snapped off or significantly damaged.”
Mr Smith said the vandalism took place over several nights.
“They pulled three heavy stakes out of the ground that were surrounding the trees and one of the trees … there’s nothing left,” he said.
“We’ve been asking people to be more vigilant and keep a lookout because a lot of young people use this street as a shortcut to get through to Werribee.
“We’ve been pretty lucky that we have only suffered minimal graffiti and damage.”
Mr Smith said council officers had been investigating and were going to replace the trees.
