Hunt for vandals after dozens of trees damaged in Mullaloo, Duncraig and Edgewater

City of Joondalup ratepayers are facing a bill of more than $12,500 after vandals damaged dozens of trees in Mullaloo, Duncraig and Edgewater.

The trees had been planted as part of the city’s Leafy City program.

The City is now assessing the damage and drawing up a replanting schedule, which is expected to cost more than $12,500.

It has warned anyone caught removing or destroying trees on city land will be prosecuted. The City can also recover the costs of the replacement of the trees and damaged property from the offender/s in court.

Joondalup mayor Albert Jacob said the damage and destruction of the trees would not be tolerated.

“The City’s Leafy City program started in 2017 and since that time over 6000 trees have been planted across the majority of our suburbs to help create neighbourhoods that are cooler, more comfortable and inviting green urban spaces,” Mr Jacob said.

“We take the matter of tree vandalism very seriously and we have a simple message to the selfish people who have done this — for every tree that is cut down or damaged, we will continue to replace them.

“These vandals show contempt for our neighbourhoods and residents and for the hard work that everyone associated with Leafy City has done in the past six years to enhance our city’s tree canopy.

“Vandalising trees destroys community assets which contribute to the amenity provided for our residents and comes at a financial cost to ratepayers.”

Nearby landowners will be asked for their help in identifying the culprits and prevent it happening again.

Anyone with information about the damage is urged to contact the city on 9400 4000 or WA Police.

Last month a vandal left the City of Perth with a damage bill of at least $100,000 after 100 trees were ripped up on Roe Street.