Call for info on stolen trees

Generous monetary rewards are usually offered for a lost pet or a misplaced wedding ring, but in Busselton it is information about stolen trees that boasts a substantial pay day.

The City of Busselton has called on the community to help them solve the disappearance of two newly planted Corymbia trees.

A $500 reward is being offered for any information that may lead to identifying those responsible for stealing the plants from Layman Road.

The trees, plus the hardwood stakes and tree ties supporting them, were removed on May 16.

City of Busselton chief executive Mike Archer said he was disappointed by the incident.

He explained the trees cost the City $160 each, but retailed for more at commercial nurseries.

“The trees were provided by the property developer and planted by the City in an effort to improve amenity in the area,” he said.

“There are social and environmental costs associated with the theft as well as costs associated with their planting and re-placement.”

It isn’t the first time the City of Busselton has offered reward for information on vandalism and damage to public property.

“We’ve done this in the past and although it hasn’t always proven successful in terms of a conviction it has raised the issue in the public arena,” Mr Archer said.

“It sends a message that the City is serious about safeguarding community assets from theft and vandalism.”

Ironically, there is no need to steal trees from the roadside in Busselton, as the local government is giving them away.

The City promotes “nature verges” through its Street Tree Planting program to minimise the cost of lawn upkeep for property owners.

Home-owners wanting to participate in the program simply need to apply and the City supplies them with native trees.